The city’s Department of Land Management is seeking qualified developers to redevelop four underutilized, city-owned properties into affordable rental housing and has issued a Request for Qualifications.

What You Need To Know

  • With these projects, the developers selected will enter into a 75-year ground lease with the city

  • They will be responsible for designing, financing, constructing and operating affordable rental housing on these sites

According to a news release, this request marks the city’s first effort to solicit portfolios, underscoring the Blangiardi administration’s commitment to innovative solutions to address Honolulu’s critical need for affordable housing.

The RFQ, designated as Solicitation Document No. RFQ-DLM-25-01, invites qualified developers to submit proposals to redevelop the following properties:

  • 1615 Ala Wai Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96826
  • 436 Ena Road, Honolulu, HI 96826
  • 130 South Beretania Street, Honolulu, HI 96813
  • 1421 Pensacola Street, Honolulu, HI 96822

 

Property at 130 South Beretania Street. (Photo courtesy of the City & County of Honolulu)

 

With these projects, the developers selected will enter into a 75-year ground lease with the city. They will be responsible for designing, financing, constructing and operating affordable rental housing on these sites. The city encourages proposals that emphasize sustainability, innovative design and community engagement to enhance neighborhood livability.

Important dates:

  • Non-mandatory pre-proposal conference: Feb. 14, 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. HST (virtual meeting)
  • Deadline for written clarifications and questions: Feb. 28, 3 p.m. HST
  • Proposal submission deadline: March 21, 1 p.m. HST

“This initiative is a major step toward transforming underutilized city assets into much-needed affordable housing,” said Catherine A. Taschner, director designate of the Department of Land Management, in the release. “We are eager to collaborate with forward-thinking developers who share our vision for sustainable and inclusive communities.”

Property at 436 Ena Road. (Photo courtesy of the City & County of Honolulu)

Kevin D. Auger, executive director of the Office of Housing, said, “Partnering with experienced developers is crucial to ensuring these projects successfully deliver high-quality, long-term, affordable housing options. We welcome proposals that embrace innovative design and long-term affordability.”

Interested developers can review the full RFO document on the Hawaii Awards & Notices Data System website. Additional inquiries and RFQ-related questions can be submitted to Kevin Auger at kevin.auger@honolulu.gov.

Property at 1421 Pensacola Street. (Photo courtesy of the City & County of Honolulu)