$2.1 Billion Secured for Maui Wildfire Recovery and Resilience

In a significant move to aid Maui’s recovery from the devastating 2023 wildfires, Congress has approved $2.1 billion in federal funding as part of a short-term spending bill. As reported by Catherine Cluett Pactol, the allocation includes $1.6 billion in Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds for housing and $480 million for economic development, small business support, and critical infrastructure improvements such as roads and water systems. U.S. Senator Brian Schatz heralded the bill’s passage, calling it a long-awaited milestone for the community and a crucial step toward rebuilding.

Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen expressed gratitude for the federal relief, emphasizing its importance in addressing the needs of the most vulnerable wildfire survivors and investing in resilience projects to better prepare the community for future challenges. Strict federal guidelines will govern the allocation and use of these funds, requiring comprehensive financial oversight and reporting by Maui County. To ensure proper management, a dedicated program office has been established within the county’s Office of Recovery.

This funding represents a pivotal opportunity to not only rebuild homes and businesses but also to fortify Maui’s infrastructure against future disasters. Mayor Bissen and local leaders view the funding as an essential component of their long-term vision for a stronger, more resilient Maui. With the President’s signature on the bill imminent, this landmark investment is set to drive forward recovery efforts and enhance the island’s preparedness for years to come.