Floodwaters in Iao Valley carved into a park area of Kepaniwai Park & Heritage Pavilions. The county is assessing the damage and determining the timeline for repairs. Similarly, up the road, state officials have extended the closure of the state park at the Iao Valley State Monument until June 28. Photo courtesy Maui County

Public access remains closed to Iao Valley State Monument, as well as Kepaniwai Park and Heritage Gardens, while work continues on storm-related repairs.

The access road to the two parks remains closed except to local traffic. The initial closure followed flooding that began March 12.

State officials said the closure of the Iao Valley State Monument has been extended until June 28 to accommodate bridge improvements and necessary safety work. The work will be focused on addressing structural concerns.

Access is not being allowed at this time due to multiple safety factors, including ongoing construction activity, heavy equipment movement, and the need to secure the work zone.

In addition, access remains restricted due to the closure of Kepaniwai Park, which controls the primary entry route to Iao Valley State Monument.

Floodwaters carved out a portion of a county parking area near the Iao Stream at Kepaniwai Park. Two picnic pavilions at the park were undermined and will require a damage assessment, repair and reinforcement.

In addition, a large pine tree fell across the river after its root system was washed away.

The county park features pavilions with various examples of architecture reflecting not only traditional Hawaiian hale designs but also models of cultural designs from immigrant countries, including Japan, Korea, Portugal, China and the Philippines.

The timeline and cost of repairs are still being determined.

“We understand the cultural significance of this area — but we have to make sure it is safe before we can reopen it,” Shane Dudoit said, deputy director of Maui County Department of Parks and Recreation.

The project contractor for the state work is Primatech Construction. For questions or additional information, contact the state parks division’s Maui District office at (808) 984-8109.