The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) is looking for assistance on strategic planning efforts for its tourism recovery plan.
The board of directors has authorized a disaster recovery plan to facilitate a quicker rebuild of Maui and is soliciting bids now.
“As we continue to assess the needs of Maui’s people and how they envision rebuilding for the future, a Tourism Recovery Plan is critical to supporting Maui’s revival and the state's immediate, mid-term, and long-term recovery efforts,” said Mahina Paishon-Duarte, Chair of the Disaster Response Permitted Interaction Group and HTA Board Vice Chair. “HTA is working on tourism-related business data with the State Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism’s Research and Analysis Division, which will also guide our efforts.”
Maui was devastated last month by some of the worst wildfires in U.S. history. The historic town of Lahaina is all but gone.
The HTA is looking for qualified applicants with experience in strategic planning and tourism.
At an emergency meeting, the HTA also authorized a Tourism Emergency Declaration. It plans to assess and understand the needs of all stakeholders in the area.
“HTA continues to work among the community and visitor industry as we support the people of Maui,” said Daniel Nāho‘opi‘i, HTA’s Chief Administrative Officer. “This Tourism Recovery Plan will correspond with our comprehensive stewardship, destination management, and visitor education initiatives, fostering a more regenerative future for all of Hawai‘i.”
The group hopes to develop short- and long-term plans in conjunction with the HAD resources. It also plans to develop a stronger messaging system in case something like this happens in the future. Hawaii has been criticized for not sounding any warnings while the fire was raging.
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