Q.  Why does the State regulate planning and zoning in Kaka 'ako instead of the City?

A. The Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) was created in 1976 by the Hawaii State Legislature to plan for and to revitalize urban areas in the State that lawmakers find to be in need of timely redevelopment. The Legislature designated Kaka‘ako as a "Community Development District", because it was determined to be underused and deteriorating, but with the potential, once redeveloped, to address the needs of Hawaii’s people.

Q.  What are the boundaries of the Kaka'ako District?

A. The 670-acre Kaka’ako District (outlined in yellow above) is bounded by Piikoi, King, Punchbowl Streets and Ala Moana Boulevard. The District also includes the waterfront area from Kewalo Basin to Forrest Avenue and the downtown HECO power plant site.

Q. What is HCDA’s vision and mission for Kaka‘ako?

A. Kaka‘ako can be a mixed-use community with a significant residential component and can be the most desirable urban place in Hawaii in which people can work, live, visit, learn and play. Kaka‘ako’s residents will be able to live in a safe and attractive environment, one with first class facilities for shopping, entertainment, education, culture, and social activities. Housing opportunities are being increased in Kaka‘ako, along with parks, open spaces and other recreational facilities. Through Kaka‘ako’s redevelopment, the State’s economy is being enhanced with new business and job opportunities. HCDA’s mission is to ensure that the Kaka‘ako District is invigorated and established as a dynamic urban neighborhood, one which will provide housing for a wide range of income groups together with commerce and services. In carrying out its mission, HCDA is contributing to Hawaii’s economic development, education, and exposure to the culture and the arts; being sensitive to and supporting existing businesses and residents; and in the process, providing the most livable community and raising standards for new communities throughout the State of Hawaii.

Q. How is HCDA improving the infrastructure of Kaka‘ako and what has been the result?

A. To date over $203 million (75% public funding, 25% private) has been invested in improvement district projects to create state-of-the-art infrastructure in Kaka‘ako. The private sector has responded with projects valued at over $2 billion for an impressive 10:1 return on investment. HCDA determines the location of Improvement Districts (IDs) based on infrastructure requirements in the area. In Kaka‘ako, many IDs have been concentrated in the areas with the worst drainage problems. Other factors such as improving traffic flow and helping to provide necessary electrical, telecommunications, water, and sewer systems to encourage adjacent development, also contribute to the decision.

Q. How is HCDA attempting to develop residential projects in Kaka‘ako?

A. Kaka‘ako represents an opportunity to be part of the attractive and convenient residential community of varying incomes, ages and family groups. To date 1,388 affordable rental and condominium units have been developed in Kaka‘ako, and another 63 units are slated for construction in 2006. The Kaka‘ako Plan provides developers incentives to build housing and requires 20 percent of the housing units to be affordable to moderate income households. HCDA also has entered into partnerships to provide housing for low income households as well.