May was a busy month with new housing initiatives, efforts to combat invasive species, and celebrating our students and state employees. We recently presented keys to the first family who will be residing in Ke Ao Maluhia at Maui Lani, as well as to the first families at the Hawai‘i Housing and Finance Development Corporation’s new affordable Ililani condominium in Kaka‘ako. In addition, the Hawai‘i Public Housing Authority’s Ka Lei Momi initiative is making progress as the redevelopment of Kapa‘a Homes on Kaua‘i begins. (Read more)

Governor Josh Green, M.D., announced a new partnership with HomeAid Hawai‘i to build Ka La‘i Ola, a project that will create 450 units for wildfire survivors on Maui who were not eligible for FEMA assistance. Ka La‘i Ola is the largest interim housing development announced for Maui wildfire survivors to date. (Read more)

The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) is offering grants to neighborhood organizations to encourage them to join the battle against the invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB). It announced that $400,000 will be available to community-based programs via two grant proposals. (Read more)

KAPA‘A HOMES REDEVELOPMENT APPROVED: AFFORDABLE HOUSING INVENTORY TO EXPAND

The Hawaiʻi Public Housing Authority and Highridge Costa Development Company have announced plans to redevelop Kapa‘a Homes on Kaua‘i. Built in 1966, the community currently has 36 homes, but the redevelopment will bring that number up to 124 homes for families on the island. The project is set to begin in late 2025 and be completed by early 2027. It will offer affordable rentals for residents earning between 30 and 60% of the area median income. (Read more)

COMPLETION OF ILILANI CONDOMINIUM PROJECT CELEBRATED IN  KAKAʻAKO

Governor Josh Green, M.D., and other government officials joined the developers of the Ililani condominium project to celebrate the completion of the 328-unit project in Kakaʻako on Friday, May 17.

Ililani boasts 328 total units, with 197 deemed affordable one- and two-bedroom apartments. The development at Keawe and Pohukaina streets provides crucial housing opportunities for local families in the heart of one of the fastest growing neighborhoods on Oʻahu. (Read more)

HAWAI‘I TO HOST THE 13TH FESTIVAL OF PACIFIC ARTS & CULTURE (FESTPAC)

FestPAC is the world’s largest celebration of indigenous Pacific Islanders, which will convene on O‘ahu from June 6-16, 2024.

Governor Josh Green, M.D., announced the festival at a news conference in May. “We’re pleased to announce we are ready to welcome guests and festival participants from across the Pacific to our beautiful state for this important cultural event,” said Governor Green. “FestPAC embodies the spirit of unity and diversity, and we look forward to hosting a memorable and enriching experience for all.” (Read more)