Lahaina Bypass Now, a group formed in March 2006 to kick-start the long-awaited highway, will dissolve at the end of this year because it has accomplished what it set out to do.
"The bypass now has momentum," said Bob Pure, president of the group's board of directors, noting that the highway's first phase is set to open to traffic in December with a second phase opening in March.
Once that second phase opens to traffic, motorists will be able to bypass four streets leading to the Lahaina business district, Pure said.
"The bypass will also relieve severe congestion and safety issues on Lahainaluna Road, providing students and residents an alternative road in and out," Pure said.
The continuation of the bypass road's construction in both north and south directions is a primary objective for West Maui legislators as well as the state Department of Transportation and Gov. Neil Abercrombie, the group's announcement said.
