What are the benefits of building at higher density, as the Ward Neighborhood plan proposes?
Building at higher densities is consistent with HCDA’s planning goals for the redevelopment of the Kaka‘ako Mauka Area as a vibrant, urban community. Ward Neighborhood will help to locate more new housing in a compact urban setting, rather than on agricultural or other lands. The strategy to build up, rather than build out, also creates more room on the ground level for wider, pedestrian and bike-friendly streets and more open space and community gathering spaces. Replacing the low-rise buildings that characterize Ward today with towers oriented in the mauka-makai direction will enhance views from the ground level, including a new view from the Central Plaza to the Pacific Ocean.
