Updating the National Historic Landmark District (NHLD) in Lahaina, was strongly supported prior to the fire. After the fire, evaluating the NHLD has become increasingly important to determine integrity status following the loss of many historic structures in the wildfire. Boundaries may need to be adjusted, and other periods of significance to the NHLD may need to be included, which will guide redevelopment in Lahaina. There are architectural design guidelines currently in place and the County’s Cultural Resources Commission is the authority for plans within the NHLD.

A complete architectural assessment should be completed on surviving buildings and structures listed in the 1974 nomination form, as well as other buildings and structures that contribute to the NHLD that were eligible for listing on the national register of historic places prior to August 8, 2023 wildfires. Hawaiian Kingdom history will also be proposed as another period of significance. Archaeological surveys, Traditional Cultural Properties (TCP) studies and oral history reports will document the rich history of Lahaina. TCP studies should include new and existing oral histories reports, as well as an ethnography. These assessments and studies will be used to update the NHLD nomination for submittal and consideration by the National Park Service (NPS).