A new survey examining public opinion on Hawaiʻi's housing crisis offers valuable insights for business leaders, investors, and policymakers navigating the state's complex real estate landscape. The survey, as reported by Maui Now, reveals a strong consensus among residents on the need for increased housing supply and a desire to address the challenges hindering development.
One of the most significant findings is the widespread perception of bureaucratic hurdles. Nearly seven out of ten residents (68%) believe that government red tape acts as a barrier to building more housing. This sentiment underscores the need for streamlined processes and regulatory reforms to facilitate faster development timelines, which could be a boon for local construction companies and developers. Furthermore, the survey indicates a strong public desire for accelerated construction, with 71% of respondents statewide agreeing that Hawaiʻi should build more housing as quickly as possible. This public support could provide political momentum for projects that aim to alleviate the housing shortage.
The survey also suggests a willingness to consider unconventional approaches. Approximately 55% of those polled support increasing the height limits for new residential buildings in select areas, a policy shift that could dramatically increase housing density and potentially open up new investment opportunities for developers willing to embrace vertical construction. This willingness to consider innovative solutions, when coupled with the public's desire to see more housing, may help change how local zoning laws restrict development. While the survey did not clarify which areas would be involved with these new height limits, it could mean a concentrated push for more housing in urban centers.
The findings align with broader discussions about the housing shortage, as highlighted in reports on Housing Hawai‘i’s Future and Civil Beat, where residents voice concerns about affordability and a lack of available housing. The Civil Beat report found that nearly half of young people under 35 are considering leaving Hawaiʻi because of the housing shortage, indicating the urgency to alleviate the issue. This recent survey emphasizes similar concerns and identifies potential strategies to meet housing needs.
