How long will the debris transfer process take?
Following the completion of the construction of the permanent debris site, transfer ops will begin in June 2025 and is expected to take approximately five months.
How will the debris be transported to the Permanent Disposal Site (PDS)? What is the route?
The nonhazardous debris will be transported via dump trucks from the Temporary Debris Storage site (TDS) at Olowalu to the Permanent Disposal Site (PDS) in Central Maui using the most direct routes. On the primary route, trucks will travel a 19-mile route from Olowalu to Central Maui using Honoapi‘ilani Highway (HI-30), Kūihelani Highway (HI-380), and former cane haul roads beginning from Waikō Road. Two alternate routes have also been identified for use in case of unplanned road closures.
Will the debris transfer impact traffic?
Based on engineering analysis by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, impacts to traffic will be marginal, but USACE is working with their partners to mitigate them. The existing temporary traffic signal at Olowalu will be utilized to allow trucks exiting the TDS to turn left safely onto Honoapi‘ilani Highway. Drivers should plan additional time into their drive time to accommodate any delays.
What does the process look like?
Debris at the TDS site will be lightly wetted for dust control. It will then be loaded into trucks and wrapped in thick, industrial-strength plastic sheeting. The loaded trucks will be weighed and then begin the route to the Central Maui Landfill. Approximately 50 trucks will make approximately four round trips per day during daylight hours.
Why can’t transport be done at night?
Work will be done during daylight hours to prioritize the safety of workers at the TDS and PDS sites, where heavy machinery will be operated.
Why does the debris transfer need to be completed in a five-month time frame?
The cost of the transfer operations and sites are federally funded, and under the County of Maui’s agreement with FEMA, the debris transfer and subsequent restoration of the Olowalu site by USACE must be completed by the end of the year. The beginning of transport in June is contingent on the completion of the permanent site at Central Maui Landfill.
Are burned cars being removed as part of the program?
No. There were no cars stored at the TDS, because burned vehicles had already been recycled as scrap metal following an adjudication process coordinated by the County of Maui’s Department of Environmental Management.
Do you plan on using Hawai‘i-owned contractors to do the work?
USACE recognizes the importance of supporting the local contracting community and the economy. USACE’s prime contractor is the Environmental Chemical Corporation (ECC). A significant portion of their subcontractors and workforce will be local hires.
What will happen if there is a truck breakdown or a tire goes flat?
The contractor has strike teams on standby to provide quick support to vehicles to minimize impacts to traffic.
What if debris falls out of a truck? What protection measures are in place to prevent this from occurring?
The nonhazardous debris will be wrapped in thick, industrial-strength plastic sheeting and lightly wetted prior to being placed in a truck at the TDS to prevent fallout during transport. If a member of the public sees something of concern, please report the incident and license plate number of the truck to the USACE debris hotline at 877-214-9117.
How do I know a dump truck is associated with the USACE debris transfer effort?
Trucks will be clearly marked with a sticker or placard providing a truck number and a logo.
Can operations cease during peak traffic hours, such as when commuters are traveling to and from work?
Unfortunately, to make maximum use of optimal weather conditions in wind-prone areas, transport operations must be conducted during the morning and late afternoon hours. Any project delays could impact the project’s completion within the required timeframe to receive federal funding.
How can I get more information?
To download the FAQ's click on image below.
