The Department of Land and Natural Resources is extending the closure of the Iao Valley State Monument for another three months as work continues on a slope stabilization project. 

What You Need To Know

  • DLNR closed Iao Valley on Aug. 1  for a slope stabilization project

  • Iao Valley was originally set to be closed until Jan. 15 

  • However, the closure will now continue until April 15

  • The extended closure is because the work is challenging and includes hanging off the side of a cliff drilling for nails that will stabilize the slope

DLNR closed Iao Valley in August for the last phase of a slope stabilization project. The closure was originally set to last for 5 and a half months, with plans for Iao Valley to reopen in January. 

However, officials have now extended the closure until April because the work is challenging and there are also supply chain issues causing delays, according to Division of State Parks Maui Superintendent Larry Pacheco, who responded to Spectrum News Hawaii in an email. 

“The work being conducted is challenging and requires a lot of man hours hanging off the side of a cliff drilling and installing soil nails to stabilize the storm damaged slope,” said Pacheco. “There has also been some supply chain issues with regards to obtaining parts for drilling and equipment repairs.”

The current estimate for Iao Valley to reopen is April 15, according to the DLNR website. 

After a massive rain event in Sept. 2016, Iao Valley was closed for the first phase of the current slope stabilization project. The closure also included cleanup of debris and removal of hazards, including collapsed walkways and damaged railings, and the construction of a concrete and rock revetment at the base of the collapsed slope.

Iao Valley is one of the most visited sites on Maui, where hundreds of thousands of locals and tourists flock every year. 

“DSP understands the importance of the area for residents, visitors, and commercial partners, but DSP is prioritizing the completion of the project for the safety for everyone before reopening,” Pacheco said.

Michelle Broder Van Dyke covers the Hawaiian Islands for Spectrum News Hawaii. Email her at michelle.brodervandyke@charter.com.