The Lahaina Jodo Mission, destroyed in the 2023 wildfire, is developing plans to rebuild its temple, pagoda, and social hall with stronger foundations and coastal protections. The mission is participating in FEMA’s Public Assistance program to help fund portions of the reconstruction.
- The 2023 Lahaina wildfire destroyed the mission’s temple, pagoda, and social hall, though the iconic Buddha statue and bell survived.
- Rebuilt structures will be designed for greater resilience, including stronger foundations to withstand ocean surges and a relocated social hall farther from the shoreline.
- The mission is partnering with UH Sea Grant, Ecosolutions Hawaii, and the Surfrider Foundation to establish a native-plant dune system along the coastline.
- FEMA’s Public Assistance program is being used to help fund portions of the rebuild, with the full scope still under review.
- Reconstruction plans aim to preserve traditional Japanese architecture while incorporating modern safety and environmental improvements.
Source: Maui News
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