Honolulu Plan approved for housing on Kakaako waterfront

September 8, 2005

Honolulu: Plan approved for housing on Kakaako waterfront

The waterfront area along Kewalo Basin will likely become residential housing as developers compete to come up with a plan for the 36 acres of State land.

The state changed the rules of the future proposed project to allow homes in the area after public input. It would be the first housing development on the makai side of Ala Moana Blvd in many, many years outside of Waikiki. With most of the oceanfront property being reserved for parks and maritime use. The state agency directors had already asked for developers to include into their plans roughly 300 residential units, approximately 250,000 square feet of entertainment and retail space and approximately 500,000 square feet of public and commercial space.

Many people are in opposition to develop the site. Some worry about huge tall buildings blocking any view of the water. Many others, including many surfers, feel that they will lose access to Point Panic surf break and access for other water activities. It is one of the few places in town that currently surfers can park for free.