Kakaako leaders plan purchase of Block P2 for community facility and affordable housing

The Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) held a meeting on April 2, 2025, to discuss community development initiatives in Kaka'ako, focusing on the potential acquisition of property for community facilities. The meeting highlighted the need for additional community spaces in the area, particularly at Mother Waldron Park, which is currently managed by the city and county.

The discussion began with the intent to activate Mother Waldron Park by introducing a community facility. However, concerns were raised about the feasibility of constructing a facility within the park due to the limited availability of park space. As a result, an alternative proposal emerged to purchase two contiguous parcels of land, known as Block P2, which are owned by an affiliate of Howard Hughes. These parcels, located between Kauai House Street and Waimana Street, include an existing warehouse with a gym.

The appraisal for the Block P2 parcels was approximately $7.05 million, but after negotiations, a purchase price of $6 million was agreed upon. This deal also includes a recognition of 765,000 square feet of industrial floor area credit, which aligns with previous agreements made during the acquisition of Block P.

The HCDA plans to lease the space to the Honolulu Kupuna Shed, a community program that promotes socialization and activities for older adults. Currently, the Kupuna Shed operates in temporary space on Lana Lane, which is expected to undergo development soon. The organization has until the end of the year to vacate its current location.

Looking ahead, the HCDA expressed a long-term vision for the Block P2 parcels, considering the possibility of developing affordable housing on the site, with ground-floor spaces that would complement the residential units above. The meeting concluded with a recognition of the Kupuna Shed's growing membership and its importance to the Kaka'ako community.