DHHL opens applications for first-ever high-rise rental units in Honolulu

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has opened applications for its first high-rise rental development in Honolulu, a 23-story tower at the site of the former Bowl-a-Drome.

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The $155 million Ke Ola Hou project, often called Hale Moiliili, offers 278 units ranging from studios to three-bedroom apartments. DHHL opened the application process Wednesday for waitlisters.

‘Giving choices to our beneficiaries’

DHHL chairman Kali Watson said the project represents a new direction for the agency.

“It’s an opportunity. That’s what this particular project is about, giving choices to our beneficiaries that they don’t have,” Watson said.

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DHHL has never offered a rental high-rise to waitlisters before.

“Currently, it’s been historically just single-family residential. This is something different, especially in urban Honolulu.”

The building is expected to be move-in ready by the end of this year.

Units are currently designated as affordable rentals, though rent-to-own options could eventually be offered.

Waitlisters can apply here.

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