MOILIILI, Hawaii (KHON2) — Big plans are in store for Moiliili as a landowner said a gateway to the University of Hawaii is critical to modernizing the area into a diverse town center with authentic cultural experiences.
The strip mall on the corner of King and University is phase one of landowner Kamehameha Schools’ project called Waianuenue at Kapaakea.
“For Waianuenue, the way the vision is to really create a vibrant community gathering space that you know, honors and celebrates the unique spirit of the community,” said Richard Chang, Kamehameha Schools’ senior asset manager.
“I’m very happy to see that Kamehameha Schools is bullish on the future of Moiliili,” said Rep. Andrew Takuya Garrett, (D) Manoa. “This area is, you know, a little dated. It’s seen better days. So I’m glad to see that they feel that it’s worth investing in this part of the community.”
Renovations on the three existing buildings started in November. The goal is to make Waianuenue a gathering place with a lively shopping district featuring diverse eateries and engaging spaces. With UH Manoa so close, many said an upgraded retail area is much needed.
“Students typically aren’t going to have their own cars, so it is important that the community around there be pedestrian-friendly,” said Garrett. “You know, they do catch the bus into Waikiki or other areas or Ala Moana to do their shopping. So having something within literally a five-minute walk, I think, would be an added amenity for the students in particular.”
“We’ve been very fortunate, at a lot of the community, our neighborhood board meetings, other community groups that we spoke into people are very excited for this Waianuenue project,” said Chang.
KS said some of the former tenants will return but it’s also bringing in a mix of national and local merchants that “fit the neighborhood lifestyle.”
“I am hoping that they are going to focus on local entrepreneurs, small businesses, because, you know, they do make up the backbone of our community,” said Garrett. “So, you know, anytime we can support small businesses and give more opportunities to the people of the area, I think that’s definitely a win-win.”
Construction is expected to take ten to 12 months. Tenants will then start their work. It is scheduled to open in 2026.
KS did not say what plans are for the rest of the project, which includes Puck’s Alley and the Varsity Building. The project website notes Kapaakea could include mixed-use residential and hotels.
“In future plans, you know, we feel that there might be a need to continue that redevelopment plans on some of our other properties,” said Chang. “But again, we have no plans at this time right now.”