The Department of Planning and Permitting, alongside Ramey and Associates, has presented an update on the Primary Urban Center Development Plan (PUCDP), a comprehensive initiative that has been in development since 2017. This plan, which encompasses a significant portion of Oahu, is designed to guide growth and development in one of the city's eight planning regions, stretching from Waialaikahala to Pearl City.

The PUCDP is classified as a development plan, distinguishing it from other areas designated as sustainable communities due to their rural or stable characteristics. The plan aims to address critical themes affecting the region's growth, including climate change, coastal hazards, and the creation of age-friendly communities. This marks the first major update since 2004, introducing new chapters focused on water resources and other pressing issues.

The presentation highlighted the demographic significance of the Primary Urban Center, which is home to over 440,000 residents and spans five council districts. The discussion specifically addressed District 8, which includes parts of Aiea, Waialu, Newtown, and Pearl City. The proposed plan outlines a growth approach that aligns with the city's general plan policies and reflects recent transit-oriented development efforts.

Key elements of the PUCDP include identifying areas with environmental constraints and appropriate locations for future growth over the next 20 to 25 years. Current projections indicate that while the Primary Urban Center will maintain approximately 43% of the total population, the Ewa region is expected to experience faster growth.

The full proposed plan and supporting documents are accessible through the Department of Planning and Permitting's website, providing transparency and ongoing engagement with the community throughout the planning process.