A groundbreaking and blessing ceremony was recently held for Hale O Piʻikea, a new 223-unit affordable rental housing development in Kīhei. The event, hosted by ʻIkenākea Development and Moss Construction, took place at the southwest corner of Piʻikea Avenue and Liloa Drive in South Maui. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries such as Hawaii Governor Josh Green and Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen, and led by Kahu Lei’ohu Ryder. This important project aims to address the pressing need for affordable housing in the area and will provide rental units for individuals, kūpuna, and families with incomes below 60% of the area median income. With a total project cost of around $135 million, Hale O Piʻikea will be completed in three phases, offering a mix of residential and commercial units. The development aligns with Maui County’s Affordable Housing Plan and has received funding from various sources to help meet the goal of building 5,000 affordable homes in the next five years. The project also emphasizes sustainability and is on track to achieve LEED Gold certification. Residents will benefit from a range of amenities, including shared laundry facilities, a computer lab, exercise room, community gardens, and more.
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Groundbreaking and Blessing Ceremony
A groundbreaking and blessing ceremony was held on Thursday morning to celebrate the start of construction for the Hale O Piʻikea affordable housing development in Kīhei. The event was hosted by ʻIkenākea Development and Moss Construction and was attended by Governor Josh Green and Mayor Richard Bissen. The blessing ceremony was led by Kahu Lei’ohu Ryder, adding a touch of spirituality and cultural significance to the event.
Overview of Hale O Piʻikea
Hale O Piʻikea is situated in the Kīhei Downtown Project and aims to address the pressing need for affordable housing in the area. The development will provide 223 affordable rental housing units for individuals, kūpuna, and families with incomes at or below 60% of the area median income. It is a much-needed solution to the housing crisis in the community and will greatly benefit those in need.
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Project Phases
The development will be completed in three phases. Phase One will consist of two four-story buildings, offering 90 residential units with one, two, and three bedrooms. In this phase, five units will be specifically designed for mobility-impaired individuals, and two units will cater to those with hearing and vision impairments. Phase Two will include 97 residential and commercial units, providing even more housing options for the community. Finally, Phase Three will add four additional buildings with 36 residential units, completing the development.
Funding
The Hale O Piʻikea project is made possible through a combination of low-income housing tax credits, Rental Housing Revolving Funds, and Hula Mae Multi-Family Bonds. Funding has been provided by the State of Hawaii and the County of Maui. This project was recognized as a tier 1 priority project in the Affordable Housing Plan of the County of Maui, further highlighting its importance in addressing the housing needs of the community.
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Shared Facilities and Amenities
Residents of Hale O Piʻikea will have access to various shared facilities and amenities. The development will have shared laundry facilities and a computer lab, making daily tasks more convenient for all residents. On-site parking spaces will be available for tenants and their guests, ensuring that parking is hassle-free. Additionally, the development will include an exercise room, community gardens, an outdoor picnic space, and secured bicycle parking stalls, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle within the community.
Commitment to Sustainability
Hale O Piʻikea is committed to sustainability and aims to achieve LEED Gold certification. This certification recognizes buildings that are designed and constructed to be environmentally friendly and energy-efficient. By meeting the requirements for LEED Gold certification, Hale O Piʻikea demonstrates its dedication to sustainability and its commitment to delivering high-quality and sustainable developments. This focus on sustainability not only benefits the environment but also contributes to the well-being of the community.
In conclusion, the groundbreaking and blessing ceremony for Hale O Piʻikea marked the beginning of an important affordable housing project in Kīhei. With 223 units, this development will provide much-needed housing for individuals, families, and kūpuna with limited incomes. The project will be completed in three phases and has received funding from various sources, including the State of Hawaii and the County of Maui. The development will offer shared facilities and amenities to enhance the residents’ quality of life, and it is committed to achieving LEED Gold certification to contribute to sustainability. Overall, Hale O Piʻikea is an essential project that will positively impact the community and its residents.
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