Hilton Hawaiian Village‘s proposal to construct a new 36-story tower along Ala Moana Boulevard has entered a critical phase, undergoing review for necessary permits. The proposed tower, slated for a half-acre parcel currently occupied by the former Kobe Japanese Steakhouse and other retail businesses, aims to add approximately 515 rooms to the already sprawling resort.

Located adjacent to the Grand Waikikian Tower and near the Kalia Tower, the development would feature a main porte-cochere entry off Ala Moana Boulevard, a spacious lobby, 6,051 square feet of ground-floor retail and dining space, a pool, fitness center, and connecting walkways to existing structures.

A recent hearing addressed applications for a Special Management Area (SMA) use permit and a major modification of a Planned Development Resort (PDR) permit. The Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP), having accepted the final supplemental environmental impact statement in July 2023, is now reviewing public comments. The DPP will subsequently issue a report and recommendation to the Honolulu City Council within 45 days. The Council holds the final authority on granting the requested permits to Hilton Hawaiian Village LLC.

Kakaako may be welcoming a new residential development with the announcement of Kaliu, a new luxury high-rise condominium project slated for Block G, a prime 2.42-acre site adjacent to the popular SALT at Our Kakaako retail and dining complex. The project, a collaboration between Kamehameha Schools, one of Hawaii’s largest landowners and the master planner of Our Kakaako, and ProsPac Development, promises to further elevate the urban landscape of this rapidly evolving neighborhood.

Kaliu will feature a 400-foot tower encompassing 294 residential condominium units. The architectural design is entrusted to Design Partners Inc (DPI), a leading Honolulu firm with an impressive portfolio of high-rise residential projects. DPI’s extensive local expertise is evident in projects such as The Park on Keeaumoku, Sky Ala Moana, Waihonua, The Collection, The Central Ala Moana, Kapiolani Residences, and Azure Ala Moana, solidifying their reputation as a key player in shaping Honolulu’s skyline.

Beyond its residential offerings, Kaliu will incorporate approximately 40,000 square feet of ground-floor commercial space. Plans include a large-format grocery store tenant, addressing a key need for residents and enhancing the convenience of the area. A curated selection of retail spaces designated for shops and restaurants are also planned.

Honolulu’s rapid transit system, Skyline, is poised for expansion with the anticipated opening of its second phase in late 2025. This extension will connect Aloha Stadium to the Middle Street Transit Center in Kalihi, establishing crucial links to key destinations such as Pearl Harbor, the airport, and Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. While the initial segment between West Kapolei and Aloha Stadium currently serves approximately 4,000 daily passengers, transportation authorities project a substantial increase in ridership upon the completion of this second phase, as it will provide more direct access to employment and activity centers.

Rigorous testing of the second segment is currently being conducted during overnight hours, ensuring the operational readiness of the system. With infrastructure construction nearing completion, trial operations are scheduled to commence in the second quarter of 2025. This progress represents a key step in enhancing Honolulu’s public transportation infrastructure, offering residents and visitors a more efficient and sustainable mode of transportation. The project underscores the city’s commitment to providing accessible and convenient transit options.

Looking beyond phase two, plans are underway for the third phase, which will extend the line to Kaka‘ako, near the intersection of Halekauwila and South streets. While current funding allocations are projected to support construction to this point, extending the line to Ala Moana Center remains a high priority. City officials are actively exploring funding opportunities to realize this vital connection, recognizing its importance as a major commercial and transportation hub. Coordinated adjustments to bus routes will coincide with the rail expansion, particularly at the Lagoon Drive and Middle Street stations, optimizing connectivity to key areas such as Downtown, Waikīkī, and the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.