HONOLULU (KHON2) — Another anchor tenant at Ward Centre is on the move. Roger Dunn is the latest retailer to move out, as the mall’s owners take the next step for future development.
The final touches are being done for this space in Ala Moana. In less than a week, it’ll be the new home to Roger Dunn Golf Hawaii.
“Boots on the ground, get it done,” said Brandon Asato, Roger Dunn Golf Hawaii. “Lot of stress, but I think Wednesday it’ll be all worth it once we open up the doors.”
The store is moving less than a mile down the road from Ward Centre to Ala Moana Shopping Center.
The timing couldn’t be better, as Ward Village, owners of Ward Centre, recently announced it has gotten permits for demolition of the 43-year-old shopping center.
“I think we’re lucky,” said Asato. “I mean, we obviously knew that there was a time stamp sort of, because of the build, but you know we were lucky enough to, I think the timing was right for Ala Moana. We kinda stumbled across this spot and everything worked out so we’re super happy.”
It’s all part of the Ward Village master plan. It includes two residential buildings – Melia and Ilima – which will include hundreds of new condos, commercial and retail space and a public park.
In a statement, Victoria Ward Limited said, “the redevelopment of Ward Centre builds on our long-term vision to create quality public spaces, elevate the retail and commercial offerings, and curate a neighborhood experience only found at Ward Village.”
We spoke to many of the stores here at Ward Centre. None of them wanted to appear on camera, but all of them, for the most part, had extremely positive experiences.
They said they all knew this day was coming when they would eventually have to leave. And as far as future plans, none of them really had anything set in stone, but a lot of them said they’d love to stay in the neighborhood.
“Our time at Ward Centre has been great,” said Asato. “I have nothing, nothing but good things to say about Ward Centre and that area. It’s been a great home for us the past five years, but we are definitely looking forward to coming to Ala Moana and excited to experience what the area has in store for us here.”
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There’s no timeline yet for the demo. But one thing is for sure – many are excited for what’s ahead.
“Brand new store, better inventory, bigger inventory, wider hitting bays, a whole new tee system will be in place for everybody to hit,” said Asato. “It’ll be fun. Super fun.”