New paving, sidewalks, railings, landscaping and other improvements line Front Street in Lahaina ahead of its scheduled reopening to vehicle traffic on Aug. 1. Photo courtesy Maui County

Front Street in Lahaina is scheduled to reopen to vehicular traffic Aug. 1 following the completion of several improvement projects in the area, the Maui County Office of Recovery announced Friday.

Repairs and rebuilding have continued since the August 2023 wildfires, including the removal of wildfire debris and offshore pilings, repairs to the seawall and sidewalk, installation of new railings and trees along the makai side of the street, fencing along the mauka side and around restricted areas, and road paving and striping.

“For so many, this milestone brings a mix of emotions, but above all, it represents another important step in Lahaina’s healing journey,” Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen said in a news release. “The reopening of Front Street marks the return of commercial activity to the heart of our town, with ʻUlu o Lele Marketplace, the iconic Kimo’s restaurant and more than a dozen other businesses moving forward as part of Lahaina’s recovery. While there is still much work ahead, this is a pivotal step that reflects the steady progress our community has made together.”

An aerial view shows the newly improved makai side of Front Street in Lahaina. Maui County officials say the roadway will reopen to vehicle traffic Aug. 1 as rebuilding continues throughout the historic commercial district. Photo courtesy Maui County

Bissen thanked the Maui County Office of Recovery, state, federal, nonprofit and community partners, and Lahaina residents for their work and patience during the rebuilding process.

County officials said they have notified property owners in the area of the planned reopening date. Residents also had opportunities to walk along the newly repaved road and improved sidewalk during the July 1 blessing of the Front Street Railings and Sidewalk Project and during this weekend’s Lahaina Homecoming event.

Front Street is currently closed from Papalaua to Dickenson streets, while the stretch from Dickenson to Shaw streets has restricted access from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. to support operations at Lahaina Small Boat Harbor.

Beginning Aug. 1, Front Street from Papalaua to Shaw streets will reopen to vehicle traffic without regularly restricted hours. Dickenson and Prison streets also will reopen.

Market Street, Papelekane Street and Mokuhinia Place will remain closed because of ongoing work, including the state’s dredging of Lahaina Harbor.

Rebuilding throughout Lahaina’s commercial district will continue as homes, businesses and infrastructure are restored. Temporary road closures may still be necessary as construction and infrastructure work progresses.

The county is asking the public to stay off private property and out of fenced areas.

For recovery updates, visit mauirecovers.org.