Helping secure vital funding and support for restoring water services and fortifying infrastructure against future disastrous events

County of Maui Department of Water Supply, FEMA Recovery - Funding Support

When the devastating fires of August 2023 ravaged Lahaina and Kula, the County of Maui Department of Water Supply (DWS) faced an immense challenge—restoring water services and fortifying the infrastructure against future disasters. They engaged us, alongside our key partner, Synergy Disaster Recovery to help. Together, we embarked on a mission to secure vital funding and support for this critical project.

Beginning with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance (PA) Program, we navigated the complex web of coordinating with more than a dozen local and federal agencies in addressing and providing critical engineering and technical support. We worked hand-in-hand with DWS and other consultants retained to conduct condition assessments, develop costs, and provide engineering support for crafting an optimal FEMA project strategy. Each step involved meticulous evaluation of project formulations, weighing the pros and cons for both small and large FEMA project worksheets.

The heart of our mission was the completion and submission of all necessary reports and paperwork in line with FEMA regulations and other funding mechanisms. We devised strategies to tap into additional funding sources, coordinated with federal agencies, and pursued grants and loans. As the project progressed, we identified approximately $33 million in potential FEMA PA projects, with nearly 90 percent eligible for Federal cost sharing—and began applying for over $500 million in grant and loan funding for long-term recovery projects.

With collaboration and an unwavering commitment to rebuilding and strengthening Maui’s water infrastructure, DWS is on track to provide a more resilient, safer water source and distribution system for residents on the island.