
March 2025 Neighborhood Board Recap
Waikīkī Neighborhood Board Meeting – March 11th
Honolulu Fire Department Update
The Honolulu Fire Department shared its monthly response statistics for Waikīkī. Five structure fires were reported in February, as well as two nuisance fires, no wildland fires, and several medical emergency calls. Buyers and sellers of real estate in Waikīkī may take note of the relatively modest fire activity, which generally indicates a community alertness to potential hazards. The fire captain also emphasized the importance of smoke alarms—especially for condo owners and short-term rental operators—encouraging residents to install and regularly test smoke alarms in every sleeping area. Proper fire safety measures can minimize insurance costs for buildings and provide added peace of mind to prospective buyers.
Honolulu Police Department Update
The Honolulu Police Department presented its monthly crime statistics. While robberies and property crimes registered some decreases compared to the prior month, police leadership reminded everyone to stay vigilant regarding theft and vehicle break-ins. Residents raised concerns about noise pollution from modified mufflers and the potential introduction of “noise cameras” to catch excessively loud vehicles. HPD noted it can cite noisy vehicles on view but is balancing limited manpower. Real estate owners should consider building locations with active associations that engage HPD on noise abatement, as ongoing noise complaints can affect property satisfaction and resale values. Residents also asked for broader foot patrols. HPD acknowledged having to weigh this request against staffing constraints but encouraged community-police collaboration. Buyers and sellers may want to research security measures within specific buildings—such as improved lighting and organized neighborhood watch—in evaluating property safety.
Board of Water Supply Information
A Board of Water Supply representative reported one water main break on Ala Moana Boulevard, noting no large-scale impact on Waikīkī. The Board of Water Supply also emphasized ongoing recruitment, seeking engineers, customer care, and IT staff. Steady water service and active water main maintenance are important to owners and prospective buyers, as frequent main breaks or slow response times can negatively affect condo operations and insurance rates. Reliable municipal services generally support stable property values.
Filling a Board Vacancy
The Board filled a vacancy in Sub-District 3 with new member Catherine Lee, who has mediation experience and participates in local associations. Buyers or sellers may be reassured that the Neighborhood Board seeks broad community representation and strives to address residents’ concerns. A well-represented board can help resolve neighborhood disputes—such as building rules and common-area uses—promptly and fairly.
Kalia Road Repaving Project
Representatives from the U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii outlined a plan to repave Kalia Road, which services major hotels and passes through Fort DeRussy. The project has three phases—scheduled between March and November—entailing lane closures during weekdays. Nearby condos and businesses should see smoother road surfaces, fewer potholes, and upgraded sidewalks, potentially increasing neighborhood appeal. However, during construction, traffic delays and altered bus routes may affect daily commutes. Prospective buyers should note the schedule and be prepared for temporary congestion near Hilton Hawaiian Village, Hale Koa, and the Army Museum.
Proposed Ala Pono Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge
The Department of Transportation Services revisited concepts for a new pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Ala Wai Canal. Although an earlier design featured a large cable-stayed structure, a public workshop (“charrette”) revealed residents’ interest in a simpler, lower-profile design that seamlessly blends into the surroundings. The project is still under environmental review and may include upgrades or additional amenities near the proposed site, including improvements to nearby comfort stations and cultural facilities. Those considering real estate along the canal or in nearby neighborhoods may monitor final bridge designs, as the bridge could improve pedestrian access, reduce traffic congestion, and add recreation value to the Waikīkī-McCully corridor.
Proposed Hawai‘i Waterman Center at the Ala Wai Boat Harbor
A local nonprofit proposed establishing a center for youth water sports and ocean safety on the Ala Wai. The group, Ikaika Waterman’s Academy, highlighted the need for affordable, safe waterfront space for children to learn paddling, rowing, and other aquatic activities. Waikīkī landlords and buyer-investors may find such initiatives add unique community identity and benefit the neighborhood by encouraging multi-generational healthy lifestyles. However, the plan requires securing public or private funding and arrangements for dock or harbor space, so prospective buyers should keep track of boat harbor access rules and city permitting processes in this area.
Community Issues and City Administration Announcements
Representatives from the Mayor’s Office clarified that outdoor dining on public sidewalks requires valid permits, an important reminder for condo and building managers hosting sidewalk-level operators. They also addressed sidewalk repairs, leaf blower noise concerns, and pigeon population control—highlighting how multiple agencies coordinate on issues that can impact property upkeep. At the City Council level, chair Tommy Waters discussed ongoing efforts to allocate funding for public safety, sanitation, and potential community benefits from new developments. Particularly relevant to prospective buyers is the Council’s effort to finalize how to channel developer contributions toward local improvements, which can lead to neighborhood enhancements or amenities near new condo projects.
Illegal Fireworks Resolution
The Board expressed support for stricter measures to prevent and penalize illegal fireworks usage. Noise and safety concerns from disruptive fireworks have long been an issue in densely populated Waikīkī, as short-term visitors sometimes ignore local ordinances. Sellers and buyers may note the Board’s stance as part of broader efforts to preserve Waikīkī’s livability, reduce noise hazards, and protect property from potential firework incidents.
In closing, this Neighborhood Board meeting offered a detailed picture of Waikīkī community priorities—ranging from infrastructure projects to public safety initiatives—that can inform any real estate decision. Buyers and sellers are encouraged to use this information when comparing condo amenities, assessing potential noise and security issues, or gauging the impact of large-scale government projects on future property values.