Before and after: 1615 Ala Wai Boulevard was cleared weeks ahead of schedule by RHS Lee
Photo courtesy: City and County of Honolulu
HONOLULU – The City and County of Honolulu has selected Centre Urban Real Estate as its preferred negotiating partner for the redevelopment of 1615 Ala Wai Boulevard — a critical step in transforming a long-neglected property into much-needed housing in Waikīkī, where affordable options for residents have become increasingly limited.
This milestone comes as demolition of the existing structure is on track for completion by the first week of August — weeks ahead of schedule and paving the way for future redevelopment after more than two decades of disrepair.
“The selection of a qualified development partner marks an exciting new chapter for 1615 Ala Wai, and a proud moment for our city’s efforts to address long-standing challenges,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “We have taken this site from decades of vacancy and blight to a point where we can now reimagine its future. This project represents our administration’s commitment to delivering housing that serves local residents and strengthens our communities. Just as importantly, we are committed to engaging with the Waikīkī community every step of the way to make sure we get this right for the people who live and work here.”
Centre Urban Real Estate is a vertically integrated real estate firm focused on urban infill and workforce housing. The company adopts a community-first approach to development, focusing on high-quality design, long-term sustainability, and efficient land utilization.
“This was a highly competitive process, and we want to thank all of the applicants for their interest and thoughtful proposals,” said Kevin D. Auger, Director Designate of the Department of Housing and Land Management (DHLM). “This project represents an opportunity to finally turn the page on a long-vacant and deteriorating property at the gateway to Waikīkī. We look forward to working with Centre Urban Real Estate and the community to shape a plan that is sensitive to its surroundings and delivers lasting value through quality, affordable housing.”
“We are honored to partner with the City on the redevelopment of 1615 Ala Wai,” said Martin M. Q. Nguyen, Principal of Centre Urban Real Estate. “As a local boy, I’m especially proud to be part of a team bringing forward a vision that reflects the natural evolution of the 1940s-era walk-up that has long stood on this site — an opportunity to pay homage to the past while addressing the pressing housing needs of today. We are committed to being rightful stewards of this transformation, delivering high-quality, affordable housing in Waikīkī, the economic engine of Honolulu. We look forward to working closely with DHLM and the Waikīkī community throughout this journey.”
For more information, visit: www.honolulu.gov/dhlm
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