Significant Improvements on the Horizon for Māla Boat Ramp: Community Engagement Meeting Set for February 4

Community Invited to Shape Future of Maui’s Boat Access

LAHAINA, Maui – As the sun sets over the majestic waters of Maui’s west side, the Māla Boat Ramp stands as a crucial gateway for both recreational and commercial marine activities. In a bid to enhance this vital resource, the Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR) is holding a community meeting on February 4 to discuss forthcoming improvement projects designed to revitalize the facility.

What’s on the Table?

Planned upgrades for the Māla Boat Ramp are extensive and aim to elevate user experience while addressing crucial infrastructure needs. Key proposals include:

• Resurfacing and Restriping: The access road will undergo asphalt resurfacing and restriping to ensure safer navigation for boaters.
• New Signage: Comprehensive signage will be installed, aiding both locals and visitors in understanding usage guidelines.
• Perimeter Barriers: Enhanced safety measures will be implemented with robust perimeter barriers.
• Drainage Enhancements: Site drainage will be improved to mitigate flooding risk and maintain a sustainable environment.
• Comfort Station Renovations: Upgrades to comfort facilities will ensure they meet the needs of all users.

DOBOR staff will be present at the meeting to walk participants through the preliminary designs, gathering invaluable feedback from boat ramp users, community members, and stakeholders to refine the final considerations.

Meeting Details

• Where: Māla Boat Ramp Comfort Station Parking Lot, Lahaina
• When: Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

For those unable to attend, DOBOR encourages community engagement via phone, allowing for inquiries and comments through February 28, 2026, at 808-587-1966.

Why It Matters

The implications of these improvements extend far beyond mere aesthetics. Enhancements at the Māla Boat Ramp align closely with broader goals of conserving our precious marine resources and ensuring equitable access for all users, including recreational fishermen and local wildlife watchers. A well-maintained boat ramp not only supports local economies through increased tourism but also fosters sustainable practices among users, ultimately reinforcing the collective stewardship of Maui’s marine ecosystems.

Field Insights: Pro-Tips for the Community

As participants prepare for the upcoming meeting, consider the following insights:

• Bring Concerns and Suggestions: Be specific about what improvements would positively impact your experience at the ramp.
• Understand Local Ecology: Familiarize yourself with the marine habitats surrounding Mála to provide informed suggestions that promote ecological sensitivity.
• Engage with Neighbors: Discuss with fellow users about their needs; a united voice carries more weight in community discussions.

This meeting signifies an important step toward revitalizing an essential outdoor facility while building a sense of community ownership and accountability in safeguarding Maui’s marine resources.

Stay Informed

For further updates, interested parties can access supporting materials, including photographs and planning documents related to the proposed improvements here.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Ryan Aguilar
Communications Specialist
State of Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources
E-mail: [email protected]

This proactive approach towards improving the Māla Boat Ramp encapsulates the spirit of community involvement in conservation. Together, we have the opportunity to enhance this vital access point that fosters both recreation and respect for our unique coastal ecosystems.