The first phase of a new affordable rental project for seniors and families is ready to accept applicants and a second phase is underway with completion set for next year. 

What You Need To Know

  • Once complete, Koa Vista will offer 192 senior and family rental apartment units in two mid-sized buildings within the Koa Ridge planned community in Waipio
  • The project is being developed by the nonprofit Homes Hawaii Inc. in partnership with GSF LLC
  • The $39 million first phase, completed late last year, consists of a seven-story, 95-unit apartment building available to seniors who earn between 30% and 60% of annual median income
  • Each unit is equipped with a refrigerator and range/oven, cable and high-speed internet access, window coverings and laminated flooring. Common area amenities include a multi-purpose room, laundry/office space, victory garden and open park

 

Once complete, Koa Vista will offer 192 senior and family rental apartment units in two mid-sized buildings within the Koa Ridge planned community in Waipio.

“Koa Vista is more than just a housing project, it’s a promise to our kupuna and local families that they will always have a place to call home,” Gov. Josh Green said at a dedication and groundbreaking ceremony on Monday. “Stable, affordable housing is the foundation of strong communities, and today, we take another step toward ensuring that Hawaii’s families and seniors can live with dignity and security.”

The project is being developed by the nonprofit Homes Hawaii Inc. in partnership with GSF LLC. Construction is made possible via state and federal tax credits, the Hula Mae Multi-Family Tax-exempt Bond program and Rental Housing Revolving Funds through the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation.

The $39 million first phase, completed late last year, consists of a seven-story, 95-unit apartment building available to seniors who earn between 30% and 60% of annual median income.

Each unit is equipped with a refrigerator and range/oven, cable and high-speed internet access, window coverings and laminated flooring. Common area amenities include a multi-purpose room, laundry/office space, victory garden and open park.  

“With the opening of Koa Vista phase one, today is an exciting day and important step in helping reach the state’s goal of housing sustainability for local families,” said Homes Hawaii president Wally Inglis. “We could not have moved forward with this project without the support from our government partners at the state of Hawaii and the City and County of Honolulu.”

Tenant applications are currently being accepted for phase one of the project. Applications are available online at hawaiiaffordable.com and can also be picked up at 1050 Queen St, Suite 304.

For more information on the application process, call Randeatte McEnroe at 808-589-1845 ext. 14 or via email at koavista1applications@gmail.com.

Michael Tsai covers local and state politics for Spectrum News Hawaii. He can be reached at michael.tsai@charter.com.