The U.S. Army's proposal to downsize its training grounds on Oʻahu presents both challenges and opportunities for Hawaii's business community, particularly in real estate and development. As the Army prepares to negotiate lease renewals on state-owned land, it's suggesting a reduced footprint, potentially freeing up thousands of acres for alternative uses. This shift could influence the local economy and necessitate strategic planning from various stakeholders.
According to Hawaii News Now, the Army is proposing to retain approximately 450 acres at the Kahuku Training Area. However, it plans to relinquish a significant portion of the land, including areas at Kawailoa-Poamoho and Makua. This decision follows the state land board's rejection of the Army’s final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) regarding the Pohakuloa Training Area on the Big Island, indicating a broader trend of scrutinizing military land use in Hawaii.
The implications for local businesses are significant. The released land could be considered for various purposes, including residential development, agricultural projects, or conservation areas. Developers and investors will need to carefully assess these opportunities, considering factors like zoning regulations, environmental impact, and community needs. Furthermore, the Army's decision to consolidate training on remaining lands, as highlighted by Stripes.com, may affect businesses that currently provide support services to military training operations.
For entrepreneurs and startups, this situation opens avenues for innovation. There could be a demand for businesses specializing in land remediation, sustainable development, and eco-tourism. The Army's commitment to cleaning up the land of unexploded ordnance and debris, detailed in a report by Civil Beat, before returning it to the state adds another layer of potential business prospects.
The Army's land use adjustments are set to have a 30-day public comment period, as reported by Hawaii News Now, which means that local businesses should stay informed and actively participate in the process to understand the upcoming changes and potential effects on the Oʻahu economy.
