FAQS
Transparency and community involvement are cornerstones of our planning process. We are committed to ongoing stakeholder engagement by providing clear and detailed responses to community concerns, hosting community meetings, and creating multiple channels for residents and the broader community to voice their opinions. Our goal is to ensure that the community remains informed and involved throughout the redevelopment process.
The project’s scale and scope have been meticulously planned to balance development with environmental stewardship, adhering to height and density limits for the site. We are taking a comprehensive approach to assess and mitigate cumulative and environmental impacts. The development will occupy no more than 30% of the property, preserving open space and makai view planes. Structures will be set back significantly from the shoreline to address resiliency needs for rising sea levels and storm events, and to respect the natural and cultural sensitivity of nearshore areas. Additionally, measures are in place to ensure appropriate beach access and to protect the natural cove and lagoon.
We are proactively developing comprehensive traffic and parking management strategies. This includes conducting traffic studies, ensuring adequate parking for visitors and employees, and implementing measures to maintain effective circulation and minimize traffic flow disruptions. In addition, traffic studies for the project indicate that there will be no change in the service level of Ali’i Nui Drive with the project.
We are committed to minimizing potential impacts on neighboring communities. Our final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will include detailed strategies for mitigating noise and light pollution to ensure that these effects remain minimal. Additionally, we are planning for increased foot traffic by enhancing public amenities and infrastructure to accommodate more visitors while maintaining high standards. Public access will be a priority, and improvements will be made to support community needs, ensuring effective circulation and maintaining a positive environment for both residents and visitors.
We are deeply committed to preserving both archaeological and historic resources, as well as sensitive cultural sites. Protecting archaeological and cultural sites is a top priority. We are implementing an extensive archaeological monitoring plan and engaging closely with the State Historic Preservation Division (SHPD) and Native Hawaiian organizations to ensure these resources are respected and protected.
Our project includes a range of measures designed to protect the adjacent beach and local wildlife. This includes specific actions to avoid light disorientation for sea turtles and seabirds, protect endangered species, and implement Best Management Practices (BMPs) for stormwater management and erosion control. Wildlife and habitat protection are integral to our project’s success. The final EIS will include measures to protect endangered species, manage light disorientation, and safeguard coral reefs, ensuring that the natural environment is preserved for future generations.
Cultural considerations are at the heart of our planning process. We sought guidance from Native Hawaiian organizations and cultural leaders as part of our Cultural Impact Assessment. The draft Cultural Impact Assessment (CIA) thoroughly analyzed the impact of the Project on cultural practices and features associated with the Project site. The CIA included inquiries with over 80 Native Hawaiian organizations.
Our EIS includes a detailed evaluation of project alternatives. There is currently no property that consolidates a performing arts venue, restaurants, retail, and educational activity programming onto one location designed to provide experiences for local kama‘āina and visitors alike throughout the day. Therefore, redevelopment of the Cove Property will complement and enhance existing resort and recreational opportunities within the surrounding area.
Climate change and sea level rise are critical considerations for our project. We are incorporating long-term strategies into the project to ensure it is resilient and sustainable, particularly in areas prone to these risks including appropriate building setbacks from the shoreline.
The change in the applicant represents the strategic partnership between James Campbell Company and Project partners Kobayashi Group and BlackSand Capital: Cove Campbell Kobayashi LLC.
We are carefully preparing the retail and restaurant development plans to ensure they align with the community’s needs and values. Planned improvements include a new performing arts venue capable of housing a daily entertainment experience focused on Hawaiian culture. To activate the property as a gathering place throughout the day, other planned improvements include small-scale retail shops, an open-air marketplace featuring only Hawai‘i and West O‘ahu goods and services, restaurants showcasing local cuisine and agricultural products, daytime activities suitable for the coastal setting, and welcoming, engaging common areas. Potential programming may include commercial activities highlighting the sense of the place, cultural workshops, landscaping programs, and coordinated events with the neighboring Lanikūhonua Cultural Institute.
We are committed to addressing concerns about coastal erosion and sea level rise. Our project includes a 60-foot shoreline setback. Building design will address sea level rise and coastal erosion by employing current sea level rise forecast data ensuring long-term resilience and environmental protection.
We are implementing advanced wastewater and water resource management strategies to support the increased demands of the project. Our EIS outlines detailed plans for sustainable wastewater treatment and the integration of new water resources.