Victoria Ward, Limited is constructing this commercial/residential development on a 6-acre block bounded by Auahi, Kamakee and Queen Streets and the Queen Street Makai Park site.  The project will include a 17-story structure with 165 rental residential units, 224,000 square feet of commercial space, 34,000 square feet of open space and 1,010 parking spaces.   The Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA)  on December 1, 2004 approved modifications to base zone development requirements to allow the development of Victoria Ward, Limited’s (VWL) Ward Village Shops Project.  Following a public hearing on the proposed project, the Authority also authorized the HCDA Executive Director to execute a joint development agreement with VWL and to issue a development permit for the project.

Modifications were requested by VWL to promote a pedestrian-friendly environment with storefronts located along public sidewalks.  The rental housing units would promote a mixed-use “urban village” with commercial retail activities that provide convenience and variety to the lifestyles of the residents.  The modifications approved by the Authority include:  additional building height to 220 feet; encroachments of structures into the view corridor setbacks along Queen and Kamakee streets; a reduced front yard along a portion of Auahi Street where the roadway will be redesigned to increase the front yard; and a loading maneuvering area to be located in the Queen Street front yard.