City begins demolition of long-abandoned Waikīkī apartment building to make way for affordable housing
The City and County of Honolulu has officially begun demolition of 1615 Ala Wai Boulevard, a long-vacant apartment building located at the gateway to Waikīkī. This effort marks a major milestone in the transformation of a blighted site into future affordable housing.
Demolition began this morning and is being led by R.H.S. Lee, Inc., the City’s contractor for the project. The work includes mechanical demolition using heavy equipment, the removal and hauling of concrete and construction debris, and the demolition of concrete stairs and incidental structures. The existing slab and foundation will remain in place, and no site grading is planned. Demolition will occur in phases and is expected to continue through the end of August 2025.
Residents and businesses in the area can expect intermittent noise during standard construction hours, increased truck traffic, and daily road cleaning activity around the site.
“This property sat vacant for more than 20 years—neglected, vandalized, and allowed to fall into serious disrepair,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “For years, nothing was done, and that was simply unacceptable. In 2024, our administration stepped in, acquired the site through condemnation, and began the hard work of moving it forward. Demolition is now underway, marking a major turning point and opening the door to meaningful transformation—one that prioritizes community benefit and long-term affordability.”
Prior to demolition, Unitek Insulation completed abatement work, including the safe removal of regulated materials in accordance with all environmental requirements. The site remains securely fenced, and all demolition activities are being conducted under close monitoring to ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards.
Originally built in 1949, the 1615 Ala Wai Boulevard property had been vacant for over two decades and was a source of long-standing community concern. Acquired by the City through condemnation in January 2024, the structure had become a magnet for blight, vandalism, and trespassing.
The City remains committed to transforming this property into a vibrant and lasting source of affordable rental housing in Waikīkī.
