WAILUKU, Hawaii — Residents and professional association members have spoken out over a resort’s expansion plans that would result in the second-largest hotel on Maui.

The Maui News reported Thursday that several residents attended a Maui Planning Commission meeting Tuesday to speak against the expansion of the Grand Wailea Maui.

Residents say they object to the project for various reasons including sea-level rise, the resident-to-visitor ratio, and the resort’s construction on ancient burial areas.

Others at the meeting voiced support, including members of the Maui Hotel and Lodging Association and the Hawaii Carpenters Union.

The 776-room resort on 36.6 acres (15 hectares) along Wailea Alanui Drive plans to add another 224 guest rooms, including up to 40 bungalow units.
The project is estimated to cost $91.5 million over five years.