Daily Archives: November 19th, 2007
Bad reviews sink Molokai EIS
Posted in Maui news
Those critical of Molokai Ranch's proposed luxury development at Laau cheered yesterday after the large landowner withdrew its environmental impact study during a state Land Use Commission hearing. Ranch representatives said they are still committed to developing the project but wanted to revise the 3,000-page study because of public criticisms. The commission's pending staff report, usually read at the end of the hearing, would have been unfavorable, according to one of the commissioners.
Superferry’s Kahului barge breaks loose
Posted in Maui news
Just after a Maui judge said the ferry Alakai could soon resume operating in Kahului Harbor on Wednesday, the docking barge that serves the ferry snapped a mooring cable and began pounding the end of Pier 2. Only minor damage was inflicted before harbor tugs were able to first stabilize the barge and then move it up against the side of Pier 2, away from the end of the dock where an early-winter swell apparently was more than it could handle.
The incident opened a question about the viability of the ferry operations at Kahului, which is subject to severe north swells during the winter months. The occasions were reckoned to be few. But the huge barge got in trouble in the first north swell it encountered, and it wasn't a big swell.
The incident opened a question about the viability of the ferry operations at Kahului, which is subject to severe north swells during the winter months. The occasions were reckoned to be few. But the huge barge got in trouble in the first north swell it encountered, and it wasn't a big swell.
Hawaii Superferry readying for protests
Posted in Maui news
As the Hawaii Superferry prepares to sail again after winning challenges in court and at the state Capitol, the company now faces its most daunting obstacle -- more protests in the water. The Coast Guard has been thrust into the middle of the emotional showdown and is now being forced into the difficult, unusual and possibly dangerous task of arresting Americans. Coast Guard personnel previously failed to provide safe passage for the vessel as protesters heckled and splashed them with water. But the Coast Guard has repeatedly warned it will take immediate action next time around.