Federal, state, and Maui County transportation leaders are meeting next week to launch a project shielding Maui's Honoapiilani Highway from big surf and rising sea levels, a positive step for West Maui residents and visitors who depend on the road.

• Maui's mayor, the state transportation director, and a top Federal Highway Administration official will meet to kick off the highway protection project.
• The highway is a key coastal route that faces damage from large waves and rising ocean levels.
• The officials will also tour Oahu's Gulick Avenue overpass and sites along the H-1 freeway.
• The federal visit signals Washington's interest in funding and supporting Hawaii's road infrastructure.

Outlook: Expect more detail on the timeline and funding for the Honoapiilani Highway project after next week's meeting and site tours.