Leiwili Kapolei Mixed-Use Project Kicks Off with Funding for Affordable Rentals

·2 min read

The first phase of the Leiwili Kapolei mixed-use development in Kapolei, West Oahu, has secured funding for 342 affordable rental units, marking a significant step toward addressing the area's housing needs. This project, part of a larger plan, aims to provide much-needed housing options for families and workers in a rapidly growing community.

A vintage yellow bicycle parked outside Diamond Head Gardens in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Photo by Jess Loiterton

The Leiwili Kapolei project is making significant progress in addressing the affordable housing shortage in West Oahu. The initial phase of the mixed-use development has successfully secured funding, paving the way for the construction of 342 affordable rental units. This development, as highlighted in a recent article by Pacific Business News, is a crucial component of Kapolei's expansion and commitment to providing housing for its workforce.

Leiwili Kapolei is the final of ten villages planned within the pre-approved master plan of Kapolei, and will include up to 900 new housing units. This mixed-use community will have a variety of units including both rental and for-sale, according to One Pacific Realty. The project aims to fulfill the long-term vision of Kapolei as a hub for both families and local businesses. This focus aligns with the broader goals of streamlining affordable housing development, as supported by recent legislation in Hawaii.

The development is not only providing housing but also fostering community connection and strengthening Kapolei’s identity as a growing hub. This approach presents opportunities for local businesses and investors looking to capitalize on this expanding market. The project includes units catering to various income levels, which could include 484 affordable rental units catering to 60% AMI and below, and 72 affordable for-sale units at 100% to 140% AMI, as reported by One Pacific Realty.

With continued investment and streamlined processes, projects like Leiwili Kapolei demonstrate the potential to alleviate housing challenges while supporting economic growth and community development in Hawaii. The development of such large scale projects is especially important, with some laws that would have limited the scope of similar affordable housing projects being amended or vetoed.

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