Talk Story #48 – New Progress Announcement For Oahu’s Ward Village Shops in Kaka’ako

In the State of Hawaii, the main capitol island of Oahu is not the largest in land mass. Consequently, when an area is superbly located for just about anything except agriculture, with an opportunity and master plan for growth, it is definitely worth keeping you up to date on what is happening.

Decisions to purchase in a certain area for investment, or to actually live, is based on many things. I have been making ‘Talk Story’ blogs about this area now for two years and following the steady changes.

Shops along Auahi St. at Ward Shopping Village

Kaka’ako is the district to watch (TS#40). Steadily moving toward the future, this prime district is located between the Ala Moana Shopping Center (TS#45), which is at the cusp of the entrance to famous Waikiki and in the other direction, adjacent to the City and Port of Honolulu. 

It includes a very popular, local family swimming beach park, commercial boat harbor, and research and educational facilities, but on the mauka (mountain) side of Ala Moana Blvd., Kaka’ako is a neighborhood within this blend of commercially mixed use, small industry and businesses set in a hodge podge of rather unattractive streets, side by side with modern shopping and high rise condominiums.

New Retail Shops at Ward Village Shopping Center

The Huges Corporation, Owner of the Ward Centers, announced recently that the urban plan on their 60 acres continues with the Ward Village Shops. A process which has transformed a vacant section of land into a striking new multi level, vine draped and landscaped parking building (TS #26) beautifully complimenting the other small park areas and features of the adjoining streets and smoothing the way for Queen St. to connect with Waimanu St. 

Kaka'ako condos and new retail areas

Within that same section and recently completed is a fine multi-level retail building (TS#30) with TJMaxx occupying an upper floor. Now the latest will be 57,000 square ft. of additional retail space in a 2-story building between this recently finished building and the older established Pier 1 Imports building on Kamakee St. (note the red construction fencing in the photo shown). The area is shaping up to have very nice walking areas now to the other Ward Street Gateway Shops and Movie theatre complex.

Honolulu Condos Walking Distance to Retail Shops

Living in one of the high rise condominiums myself, it is satisfying to share this news. Multitudes of available units abound for someone interested in living near so many diverse amenities. 

Are there some great panoramic views of city lights, mountains, and ocean? Yes. City noise? Yes. Cars and traffic? Yes. BUT it is the location, where one can walk just about everywhere, or to a bus stop nearby. Parks and green areas abound, the ocean and beach are just a block or so away. The Blaisdell Concert Hall and Arena, hospitals and other medical or dental facilities, along with all the other basic needs are also nearby. 

Ko'olani condo just a walk away from new retail shops

Retirement is a breeze in the modern high rises, some are there specifically for the elderly, but most cater to all ages and families. It is a lifestyle of living with security, recreation, and exercise areas. There are literally hundreds of casual and/or fine dining establishments, even several farmers markets to go to, as one can see with the Hawaiiki and Moana Pacific twin towers condominiums within a short stroll.  

Let’s Talk Story!

Contact me if you are interested in this changing area. I do look forward to hearing from you and having our own ‘Talk Story’ time. Let’s discuss what you are looking for, whatever or where ever it is, Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers and I are here to assist you in that search. 

With warm Aloha, 
Jeanne 

Note: In Hawaii, there is often a gathering of family and friends, and in a casual way stories are told of present and past happenings. We call it “Talk Story.” My continued series are about different places around Oahu with a bit of their history, and the opportunities for you today. I would love to hear about your personal Hawaii memories to share, perhaps during the territorial days, like I was, growing up out ‘Koko Head’ way.

Hawaii is a special place and so are the people. Follow me as we discover a lifestyle best suited for YOU. Whether it is a new military move, a casual beach house, a downsized retirement home, a golf course fronted resort home-away-from-home, a grand residence with superb view, or a high rise condominium…the choices and the Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers resources are many. Jeanne@HawaiiLife.com