News Beat

HFIA Re-creates Ancient Hawaiian Forest

BI May, 2012 - In a statement released April 25, the Hawaii Forest Industry Association (HFIA) said it is collaborating with the Hawaii Forest Institute (HFI) and community partners to plan a new exhibit at Honolulu Zoo — the Children's Discovery Forest. The exhibit, meant to increase public awareness of Hawaii's forest ecosystems, will be constructed near the zoo entrance and adjacent to the future site of a Native Hawaiian Village.

"The Discovery Forest will be a representation of natural systems, creating a scene of Hawaii before the arrival of humans," says HFIA. "The exhibit will demonstrate culturally significant Hawaiian plant species, the significance of place, and the kuleana of malama aina (responsibility to care for the land) by integrating traditional Hawaiian forest ecosystems, forest stewardship opportunities and innovative land-based education for residents and visitors."

HFIA recently was awarded a $49,100 Hawaii Tourism Authority Natural Resources Program award, administered by the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, for the Discovery Forest. HFIA has yet to announce a general contractor for the project.

Fifty Rail Columns Going Up in Coming Months

BI May, 2012 - General contractor Kiewit Infrastructure West Co. began drilling the very first foundation shaft and support column on April 23 of what eventually will be the 20-mile rail system.

According to Lance Wilhelm, Kiewit spokesperson for the project, the company has been authorized to construct the first 50 columns, each to be built 125 feet apart, equal to a little more than a mile of the fixed guideway.

Drilling will be followed by concrete pours, after which transition rebar will be installed, says Wilhelm. The drill shafts are 8 feet in diameter, with the first being 20 feet deep.

The drilling will proceed east from this column, located makai of Farrington Highway and east of Kualakai Parkway, within D.R. Horton – Schuler Division's Hoopili community.

Six New Kapolei Streets Dedicated

BI May, 2012 - The City & County of Honolulu and Kapolei Property Development opened six new Kapolei roadways on March 12 as part of an ongoing effort to improve traffic flow in the area and stimulate job creation.

The city spent $4.75 million for the Kapolei Parkway extension and the developer spent approximately $20 million to construct new sections of Kapolei Parkway; Kamaaha Avenue; and Manawai, Wakea, Alohikea and Kuou streets.

Built by general contractor Delta Construction Corp., the roads add new alternate routes to connect residential areas with job and commercial centers in Kapolei.

"These new roads do more than just improve traffic flow," says Richard Dahl, CEO of the James Campbell Company, parent company of Kapolei Property Development. "These roads stimulate job creation. By providing access to the commercial lots in the city of Kapolei, these roads attract additional investment and encourage companies to locate their businesses in Kapolei. ... We appreciate Mayor Peter Carlisle's vision and strong commitment to making Kapolei a vibrant city in which to work and live."

Local Firms Win at National Convention

BI May, 2012 - The General Contractors Association of Hawaii (GCA) hosted the annual convention of its national affiliate, the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), between March 13 and 17 at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Besides a variety of educational plenary sessions and networking events, the convention also included a number of award ceremonies that paid tribute to successes in various aspects of construction. Contractors with Hawaii ties were among those recognized, including the following:

* Watts Constructors earned the Marvin M. Black Excellence in Partnering Special Recognition Award for its USS Arizona Memorial Visitor Center project

* Watts-Healy Tibbitts, a Joint Venture was presented with the Alliant Build America merit award in the best new federal & heavy construction project category for its Pacific Fleet Submarine Drive-in Magnetic Silencing Facility

* The PCL family of companies, which includes Nordic PCL Construction, Inc., received the grand award for construction safety excellence.

'The foundation of any successful project is teamwork," comments Kristine Young, AGC president. "When you have a group of dedicated, skilled people working together to achieve the same goal, anything is possible."

Facilities Management Expo Grows

BI May, 2012 - The 2012 Hawaii Buildings, Facilities & Property Management Expo, held March 7 and 8 at the Neal Blaisdell Center Exhibition Hall, was the largest in the five-year history of the event in both exhibitor participation and attendance.

A total of 222 companies occupied 281 exhibit booth spaces, who were visited by 2,462 attendees. Among the exhibitors were 61 companies new to the expo, and 21 of those were new to the Hawaii market.

In addition, there were a total of 23 free seminars, one of them by Commercial Roofing & Waterproofing Hawaii, Inc. that addressed the future of solar tax credits. This seminar drew 123 attendees. Construction Management Inspection LLC presented a session on the problem of aging pipes in Hawaii's buildings, with 181 in attendance. Overall, 1,294 people attended at least one seminar.

"The mission of the expo has been to reveal and serve an important but under recognized and under valued industry in Hawaii, and that's the day-to-day operation and maintenance of our existing buildings and facilities," says Ken Kanter, exposition director for show producer Douglas Trade Shows. "It's a huge and vital industry with tens of thousands of people involved, from commercial property managers, volunteer AOAO boards and building engineers to security and maintenance personnel, contractors and related trades and the vendors. The 2012 expo was definitely a large step towards fulfilling its mission."

CRW Expands Westward

BI May, 2012 - Commercial Roofing & Waterproofing Hawaii, Inc. (CRW) has opened a second office, located in West Oahu.

The expansion has been a long-term goal in the making, according to Guy Akasaki, CRW president and CEO. "This will allow our family of companies to grow exponentially during this time of an apparent rising economy. With continued efforts to develop Kapolei into Oahu's second city, we also predict that there will be opportunities for growth."

Akasaki says the West Oahu location allows the company to establish a new corporate headquarters and an expanded baseyard to service Central and West Oahu projects as well as overseas operations in Guam and the Philippines. More than 80 CRW staff have been transferred to the new location, while the remaining employees will continue to operate the firm's Kalihi facility.

 

GreenPath Unveils Portable PV

BI May, 2012 - GreenPath Technologies, Inc. recently developed a solar powered energy harvesting and storage solution specifically designed to meet energy needs for both military and catastrophe response.

Developed to fulfill GreenPath's contract with the Hawaii Technology Development Venture (HTDV), the STAESS (soldier transportable alternative energy storage system) is composed of photovoltaic cells within a foldable, portable "binder."

"The research & development/manufacturing division of GreenPath is broadening its capabilities into energy storage to allow for seamless integration with our non-glass laminated modules. This combination of highly efficient energy harvesting, folding non-glass modules plus energy storage systems deliver a turnkey solution to providing renewable power for remote locations," says Jim Chaney, director of product development for GreenPath Technologies.

"The system delivers a transportable means of harvesting solar power as well as storing it for 24/7 on-demand power," explains Chaney. "A system as such could power remote command centers for the military as well as integrate with other sustainable technologies such as water purification."

Chaney concludes, "We see the potential of our renewable energy technologies definitely moving beyond the borders of Hawaii and hopefully making that impact global. At the end of the day, our intent is to develop sustainable solutions in renewable energy technology that takes our strengths and matches it to the end customer needs. We bring a holistic approach to integrating solar photovoltaic applications that capture the most value for the end user, both today – and years down the line."

NAWIC Celebrates Women in Construction Week

BI May, 2012 - To commemorate national Women in Construction Week, March 4-10 this year, the Honolulu chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) completed a community service project for those enrolled in the residential substance abuse program for women with children at The Salvation Army's Family Treatment Services.

Called "My Sister's Closet," the undertaking first involved donations of women's clothing and accessories suitable for work – which NAWIC Honolulu has been gathering for more than a year. NAWIC Honolulu members and volunteers then converted a 12-foot by 12-foot storage room into a closet from which the women in the program can select an outfit for a job interview. Work included changing light fixtures, installing a ceiling fan, installing new flooring and cove base, painting the room, a bathroom and a storage closet off the main room, hanging mirrors, and installing clothing rods and shelves throughout the room.

NAWIC Honolulu has a long history with this facility. For the past 17 years, the association has hosted an annual Christmas party and performed at least one other construction-related community service event in each of those years as well.

Later this year, NAWIC Honolulu will conduct a series of classes to prepare the women for job interviews, concluding with mock interviews and critiques. The majority of the women in the program are single moms who need to work to provide for their families, but many of them have never had a job.

"NAWIC is committed to enhancing the success of all women in construction - not just those who are NAWIC members," says Paula Daligcon, president of NAWIC Honolulu. "We accomplish this through educational opportunities, networking and community/industry service projects."

Solar A/C Hits Hawaii

BI May, 2012 - Admor HVAC Products, Inc. installed Hawaii's first solar air conditioning system on March 20 at its own Honolulu office.

The Solar Cool thermal air conditioning system combines a state-of-the-art high-efficiency, two-stage air conditioning system with a proprietary solar thermal collector panel. This panel, generally positioned where it can harness the most solar radiation, super heats the refrigerant, which in turn reduces the required work load of the compressor, lowering the overall power consumption of the system.

For added flexibility, a variety of installation kits allow the collector panel to be mounted on either pitched or flat roofing, on the ground or on a pole.

Explaining why the company decided to install it first at its own office, Drew Santos, the firm's president, says, "In order to truly understand the function, engineering and operation of (this) system, we wanted to install an operational system so that our employees and customers could see (it) in operation. During the installation, factory reps from Solar Cool provided on-the-job training so that we could be assured that it was (done) properly. The installation also provides us with a training tool for contractors and allows us to monitor the performance to verify the manufacturer's energy savings claims. Another big reason to install the system was to save energy and money. We replaced an old 13 SEER air conditioning system with the new Solar Cool system."

"Once we complete our due diligence with in-house testing and monitoring of savings, we expect to begin a promotional and training campaign," adds Santos.

Shoppers Swarm Whole Foods Kailua

BI April 20 - The new Whole Foods Market in Kailua opened with a bread-breaking ceremony. Photo by Shauna Goya

The long-awaited Whole Foods Market at Kailua Town Center finally opened its doors on Wednesday morning. The grand opening event drew more than 600 shoppers in the first hour, said Whole Foods Market in a statement.

The event began with the company's traditional bread breaking ceremony as well as giveaways, promotions and samples from a number of island vendors throughout the day.

"Our team members have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and warm Windward welcome that we have received from the community and all our shoppers on our first day of business here in Kailua," said Tim Talkington, Whole Foods Market Kailua store team leader. "Our hope is to become more than just a grocery store providing a bounty of local and organic options, but a gathering place for people to come together to cultivate a healthy lifestyle and enjoy the unique spirit of Kailua."

The 33,500-square-foot supermarket is Whole Foods Market's third Hawaii store and second Oahu location. Read more.

New State Building Code in Effect

BI April 20 - Pursuant to Chapter 107, Hawaii Revised Statutes, the 2006 International Building Code became effective on April 16 as the new State Building Code.

The four Hawaii counties were required by state law to adopt the state code, but each was allowed to amend the state model as it applies to their respective jurisdiction.

The City & County of Honolulu's Department of Planning and Permitting currently is in the process of modifying the new state code by adding local amendments that apply specifically to Oahu, called Bill 35.

The measure, currently before the Honolulu City Council, would formally adopt the new 2006 International Building Code with the local amendments. In the meantime, the new code will be in effect on an interim basis.

BIA Announces 2012 Parade of Homes Leadership

BI April 18 -McKibbin Mist of Gentry Builders has been named the steering committee chair of the Building Industry Association of Hawaii's 56th annual Parade of Homes, scheduled for the first two weekends of October.

Themed 2012 Parade of Homes, A New Home Revolution this year, the statewide showcase of new homes in Hawaii will educate consumers on the latest trends, technology and design innovations in residential construction.

 

Safeway Expands its Role as a Major Hawaii Developer

BI April 4 - Reaffirming what we talked about here a short while ago about Safeway fast becoming one of Hawaii's leading developers, the supermarket giant, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Property Development Centers, has announced plans for a new $50 million shopping center in Kapolei. It is estimated that the center, called Parkway Shops Kapolei, will encompass roughly 20 to 25 tenants—and Safeway may not even be one of them! (Safeway, in its role as developer-owner, has not yet determined whether it will anchor the center with a store.) Expect to read more in the upcoming May issue of Building Industry magazine.

HART Confirms Grabauskas as Director

BI April, 2012 - The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART), the agency responsible for the rail project, selected Daniel Grabauskas as its CEO/executive director. He will begin his new role later this month.

HART's board of directors voted unanimously on the selection at its March 1 board meeting at Mission Memorial Annex.

"I am humbled to be selected as HART executive director and I am fully committed to helping bring this project to reality," says Grabauskas.

Grabauskas' three-year HART contract includes an annual base salary of $245,000, a $36,000 a year housing allowance and a transportation allowance of $6,000 a year. The proposal also includes the potential for a $35,000 annual performance bonus.

He was previously chairman and senior strategic adviser of the Bronner Center for Transportation Management and general manager of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) before that. Grabauskas also served as Secretary of Transportation for Massachusetts.

"After an extensive screening process, the board concluded that (Dan) Grabauskas was the one for the job: He is an honorable public servant, passionate about public transportation in general and our project in particular, and he is fully committed to using his considerable knowledge, skills and experience to delivering rail to the people of Honolulu, on time, and within budget," says Keslie Hui, chairman of the HART board's Human Resources Committee.

Aiea to Get New Library

BI April, 2012 - The state Department of Accounting and General Services will soon be procuring a general contractor for the new Aiea Public Library, with bids due April 5.

"The new Aiea Public Library will be located on a 2.254-acre site that was part of the former Aiea Sugar Mill property," explains Carol Sakata, executive vice president of CDS International, the architect for the project.

"The 17,135-square-foot building will contain stack space for approximately 78,000 books along with a circulation
desk, workroom and a children's reading room," Sakata continues. "The building's interior and exterior design is reminiscent of the old Aiea Sugar Mill. The interior space will have a high, open ceiling with exposed structural elements and air conditioning ducts, and abundance of clerestories and skylights. A tall, gable glass facade will be the focal point for pedestrians and drivers coming up Aiea Heights Drive while opening up the interiors to views of Pearl Harbor. The community room occupies one wing of the structure and is separated from the library proper by the main entrance breezeway to facilitate after-hours use."

The planned parking area is expected to accommodate 53 vehicles. In addition, the project is being designed to meet LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) silver criteria, employing concepts such as daylighting and photovoltaic-generated electricity.

Tentative completion of construction is scheduled for early 2014.

Bids are estimated to come in between $5 million and $10 million.

Though most of the funding has been appropriated, Senate Bill 2999 requests an additional $1.75 million for the project, which will go primarily toward construction costs as well as furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E). The bill passed its first reading and was referred to the Ways and Means Committee on Jan. 27.

If the additional funds are not approved, the project may have to be scaled back, or rely on fundraising and other monies for FF&E.

February Fire Delays UH Projects

BI April, 2012 - Fourteen University of Hawaii (UH) projects initially scheduled to bid between Feb. 17 and March 8 have been postponed because of a fire on Feb. 12 that caused an estimated $1.25 million damage to the college's fiscal and procurement office.

Investigations indicate the fire's origin was electrical, and the damaged structure has been cleared for demolition. The university has not yet determined what reconstruction on the site will occur.

In the meantime, the displaced employees have been temporarily relocated among a total of 14 sites throughout the UH system offices, UH Manoa campus and nearby areas.

The fiscal office houses financial records for all 10 campuses in the UH system, including plans and specs for the postponed projects. They range from improvements to athletic facilities, reroof and repair projects to a variety of campus buildings, and various system upgrades. Also postponed are two projects on Maui and one in Hilo on the Big Island.

As of March 1, only one of the projects had been rescheduled, an elevator modernization project at UH Manoa, originally set to bid on Feb. 17, postponed to March 19.

Armstrong Earns Accolades

BI April, 2012 - The first quarter of 2012 has been a fruitful one for the Armstrong Companies, which recently received three awards along with a $1.8 million Maui contract.

In February, Armstrong Builders LLC, the firm's construction arm, earned two awards from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), which were presented during NAHB's International Builders' Show.

One was a first place Safety Award for Excellence (SAFE) in the single-family home builder category. Armstrong was one of 17 companies to be recognized for having developed and implemented exceptional construction safety programs in order to achieve exemplary safety and health in the residential construction industry.

The second was a silver Energy Value Housing Award in the hot climate category, an award that recognizes builders and remodelers who voluntarily incorporate energy efficiency in the design, construction and marketing of homes. Armstrong recently completed two subdivisions that have earned Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certification.

In fact, on Jan. 11, Armstrong Builders was named the Grand Award Winner in this year's Green Builder Home of the Year Awards by Green Builder Media for one of those subdivisions: its 45-unit Kumuhau community in Waimanalo. Designed and built in partnership with the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, the project was recognized for its functional use of natural surroundings, water and energy efficiencies, and reflective planning in the design layout.

Finally, Armstrong Pacific was awarded on March 6 a $1.8 million contract to build the first phase of a new Easter Seals Hawaii facility in Kahului, Maui.

The project involves the renovation of a 6,000-square-foot building, which formerly housed two preschools. It will include new classrooms to accommodate training and recreational programs; new plumbing and electrical wiring; new bathrooms, a new roof, and air conditioning and ventilation system. In addition, Armstrong Pacific will resurface the parking lot, install new landscaping and irrigation and build a new covered pavilion.

Work is expected to be complete by August 2012.

AIA Celebrates Architecture Month

BI April, 2012 - In celebration of Architecture Month in April, the Honolulu chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) is hosting a variety of free and public activities.

The events are intended to highlight the power of good design in making our communities better places to live, work and play and also generate a discussion of the future of design in Hawaii.

These include:

April 4 — Celebrating New Hawaii Architects: To be held at Pearl Ultralounge between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., the event will recognize new licensed architects since 2010, giving all attendees, fellow colleagues and board members a chance to network and (re)connect with each other.

April 12 — Hawaii Public Radio Pledge Drive: AIA Honolulu architects will again answer the phones during the Hawaii Public Radio pledge drive, between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. Call 955-8821 during these hours to pledge support while connecting with our architects.

April 14 — Architectural Walking Tour: Two-hour tours led by AIA member docents, starting at 8:30 a.m. until noon, will visit some of the architecturally significant historic buildings in Honolulu's Chinatown special design district.

April 15 — Family Sunday at the Honolulu Academy of Arts, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: AIA Honolulu architects will lead keiki in an art design project based on this year's theme "Birthday."

April 18 — Architecture Film Night: A free public showing of the film "Grand Paris – the President & the Architect" will be held at The Arts at Marks Garage. The film is about Franch President Nicolas Sarkozy's government engaging 10 architects to spend a year rethinking Paris. AIA Honolulu hopes this event will serve as a launching point for further public discussion about design in Hawaii.

April 22 — Big Island event: To celebrate Architecture Month across the state, the Hawaii Island Section of AIA Honolulu invites the public to join them in an architectural-related event; date and time to be determined.

April 27 — Downtown Honolulu Architecture Firm Crawl: Attendees at this third annual event will be able to visit an array of architectural design firms to learn about their offices, projects and people who are passionate about good design.

Niking to Build Army Headquarters

BI April, 2012 - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Honolulu District, recently awarded a $46.78 million contract to Niking Corp. for the first phase of the USARPAC (U.S. Army Pacific) Command and Control Facility.

This is the first construction contract issued for the multiphased building of the future headquarters of USARPAC at Fort Shafter.

The performance period is 750 calendar days, with construction expected to start this spring.

If all six phases of the project are built, the complex will be 350,000 square feet and estimated to cost nearly half a billion dollars.
ABC Installs New Leadership

The Hawaii chapter of Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc. (ABC) held its annual "Construction in Preview" and installation banquet on Feb. 21 at 3660 on the Rise.

The newly installed 2012 officers include:

• Chairman: Malcolm Barcarse, Jr., A&B Electric Co., Inc.

• Vice-Chairman and Chairman-Elect: Lee Lewis, Lewis Electric LLC

• First Secretary: Larry Santiago, AB & Associates dba HMAA

• Second Secretary: Alice Inabata, AB & Associates dba HMAA

• Treasurer: Chris Lee, ECA LLP

• Past Chairman: Joseph Ferrara, Consolidated Painting LLC

Also installed were the following directors: Darren Wada, Quality Design Build; David Tsuda, First Hawaiian Bank; Paul Vierling, Hawaii GeoPhysical Services; Lance Kakimoto, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney; Doug Sangillo, Helix Electric; Steve Nelson, Jacobsen Construction Co.; and Douglas Luiz, Diversified Plumbing & Air Conditioning.

Trustees and directors of ABC's Construction Education Foundation also took their oaths of office: trustees — Maurice Torigoe, M. Torigoe Plumbing, and Ross Kawano, ECA LLP; directors — Daryl Arita, Arita Poulson General Contracting, LLC; Mike Glenn, Mico Mechanical, LLC; and Jeffery Durham, CC Engineering & Construction, Inc.

Sharing their forecasts for 2012 were guest speakers: retired Maj. Gen. Robert Lee, campaign manager for Linda Lingle, who also served as the installing officer; Paul Brewbaker; principal of TZ Economics; and Howard Dicus of Hawaii News Now.

Big Excitement in Kailua

BI March 27 - We probably all know by now that the long-anticipated Whole Foods Market is just about ready to open its new store in Kailua Town Center—the actual opening date is April 18.

But do you know why Whole Foods is so excited about this store? It's the first one in Hawaii to be built from scratch—brand new structure from the ground up! And it is impacting commercial/retail business at the center in a big way. Mitch D'Olier, president and chief executive officer of Kaneohe Ranch Management and Kimo Steinwascher, vice president of leasing and development for Kaneohe Ranch, say the news that Whole Foods would be at the center has been a major draw for other merchant/tenants who want to be near the popular national retailer. Read more.

DOE Goes Digital

BI March 16 - Effective March 1 this year, all construction projects administered through the state Department of Education (DOE) will be bid out exclusively through the Hawaii Electronic Procurement System (HePS), and will no longer be posted on the State Procurement Office website. (Previously, only projects valued at $250,000 and below were bid through HePS)

Also, all bids will no longer be accepted in person at the DOE office but must be submitted electronically. General or prime contractors interested in DOE projects must register with HePS to learn of and bid on upcoming DOE projects.

To register, you will need:
· Basic company and contact information
· General tax identification number
· Data universal numbering system (DUNS) number (optional)

Subcontractors are not required to register, but it can help to stay abreast of upcoming projects and the generals bidding on them.

More information will be made available through Building Industry's sister publication BidService Weekly and its companion website, www.bidservicedaily.com.

To register, visit www.hawaii.gov/spo/eprocurement

Can We Enroll?

BI March, 2012 - HPU President Geoffrey Bannister has confirmed that the university is pursuing arrangements with the new owner of Aloha Tower Marketplace to use part of the retail and restaurant complex for student housing. Approximately 250 student loft dormitory spaces presumably could be created on the second level of the Marketplace, now owned by Hawaii Lifestyle Retail Properties LLC, an affiliate of California-based eRealty Fund. The plan is being viewed as a win-win situation for both parities—helping to solve the university's serious need for student housing and providing a "live-in" consumer base for restaurants and shops at the marketplace, along with their families and friends. Talk about the best of both worlds!

Hawaii's Largest Wind Project Breaks Ground

BI March, 2012 - Developer First Wind held a groundbreaking ceremony for its fourth project in Hawaii—Kawailoa Wind Farm on Oahu's North Shore. With a total capacity of 69 megawatts, it will be the largest wind project in Hawaii, capable of supplying approximately 5 percent of the island's electrical demand.

Located on Kamehameha Schools' Kawailoa Plantation, the wind farm is expected to be operational by the end of the year. The general contractor is RMT, Inc., the same company that built First Wind's Kahuku Wind Farm and currently is constructing Kaheawa Wind II on Maui. Read more.

see the story in the magazine

Armstrong Builders Wins National SAFE Award

BI March, 2012 - Armstrong Builders, LLC was among 17 homebuilders honored by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) on Feb. 8 at the sixth annual SAFE awards dinner in Orlando, Fla.

Held during NAHB's International Builders' Show, the Safety Award For Excellence (SAFE) event recognizes member companies, workers and other individuals for the excellent safety programs that make them leaders in the residential construction industry.

Armstrong earned his first-place award in the single-family homebuilder category and was the only Hawaii-based firm to win a SAFE award. Read more.

It's Becoming a Reality!

BI March, 2012 - Hawaii DeBartolo is moving forward with the long-anticipated Ka Makana Alii regional center in Kapolei—Hawaii's first new regional center in 40 years.

Sadler Architects out of San Diego was named the design architect, with Architects Hawaii as architecture agency of record and Belt Collins Hawaii as project engineer. Nordic PCL earlier was named general contractor for Phase I of the planned 1.4 million square-foot, urban mixed use regional center, which is expected to break ground in late 2012 and open in 2014.

Upon completion of all phases, Ka Makana Alii, located on 67 acres leased from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, will be the third largest shopping center in the state—Ala Moana Center being the largest and Pearlridge Center the second largest. <more news>

Goodfellow Lands Airport Work

BI March, 2012 - A top state project worth $5,054,910 for improvements to Molokai Airport was awarded to Goodfellow Bros. Inc., according to BIDService Weekly. The Department of Transportation job, which includes taxiway paving, pushed January's total awarded contracts for the construction industry to more than $18 million.

Over the years, Goodfellow has worked on other Island airport projects, including Lihue Airport, Kauai, which badly needed renovation. Goodfellow Bros. Inc. demolished the old runway and constructed one to FAA standards. At Molokai's isolated Kalaupapa Airport, the company replaced the runway, improved terminals and built a new airplane parking apron.

Goodfellow Bros. Inc. is a family-owned business with more than 80 years of experience in general contracting. It specializes in large construction projects, such as airports, dams, paving roads and housing developments. Click here

Seawater A/C in Downtown One Step Closer

BI March, 2012 - Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning, LLC (HSWAC) announced on Feb. 1 that its renewable energy project had moved closer to construction start. The firm has been granted special management area (SMA) use approval and shoreline setback variance by the Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT) Office of Planning.
The SMA permit system provides guidance through state law for managing coastal development and allows HSWAC to construct a pumping and cooling station as well as install underground piping in the Kakaako area.
"The rigorous permit process was an important step in assuring all stakeholders that the project is moving forward correctly. Being granted this permit is a major milestone in the construction of this renewable energy project," says William Mahlum, president and CEO.
The approval follows a January announcement that One Waterfront Towers, the twin 45-story towers located across from Honolulu Harbor and Aloha Tower Marketplace, has signed an agreement to utilize the HSWAC system.
The project is anticipated to generate more than $200 million in construction spending in Honolulu and create more than 900 construction jobs. Once constructed and operating, HSWAC's downtown cooling system will significantly decrease the state's dependence on oil.
The system will eliminate the need for 178,000 barrels of oil, reduces potable water consumption for air conditioning by more than 260 million gallons, reduces sewage by up to 84 million gallons, and avoids emissions of 84,000 tons of carbon dioxide – per year.
Groundbreaking is anticipated for the first half of 2012.

UH to Get $42M IT Center

BI March, 2012 - The University of Hawaii at Manoa held a groundbreaking ceremony on Feb. 3 for its $41.7 million Information Technology Center. Honolulu-based dck pacific construction, LLC, a dck worldwide company, is the general contractor for the six-story, 74,000-square-foot building.
The building will provide a centralized facility for the university's system-wide Information Technology Services (ITS) division. It will include a data center featuring an 8,000-square-foot machine room for enterprise servers, storage and communications, an emergency situation room to support UH disaster response, a help desk, media development capacity, meeting and training rooms with teleconferencing capability, and a modern workspace for ITS staff.
To meet LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) silver critera, the concrete structure will be clad with an aluminum-and-glass wall on its exposed facades and painted concrete where it faces an existing five-story concrete building to the west. An exterior sun-shading system and catwalk will help to control direct sunlight and solar heat gain. Outdoor lanai and landscaped roofs will be installed at the intermediate floors, and a steel-and-glass canopy will shelter the building entrance and pedestrian arcade.
"Information technology is critical to any organization, and dck pacific is delighted to have been selected to create a center that will help the University of Hawaii make the most of this vital resource," says Eric Tessem, dck pacific's senior vice president and general manager.
Work also includes site demolition, clearing and earthwork, as well as all asphalt and concrete pavements, site utilities and landscaping. The project is expected to take 15 months. The architect for the project is Ferraro Choi and Associates, Ltd., and the construction manager is Bowers + Kubota Consulting. Expected completion is May 2013.
"By consolidating our IT systems, which are currently scattered throughout various buildings on campus, into one facility specifically designed to support these systems in an efficient manner, we will achieve substantial gains in energy efficiency for IT," adds David Lassner, UH vice president for information technology and chief information officer. "We've imagined a building like this for our university for many years and we're excited to see it becoming a reality."

Construction Begins on Kawailoa Wind Farm

BI March, 2012 - Following the December 2011 approval of a power purchase agreement between Massachusetts-based First Wind and Hawaiian Electric Co. (HECO), First Wind scheduled a Feb. 24 groundbreaking ceremony for its Kawailoa Wind Farm on Oahu's North Shore.
General contractor, RMT, Inc. — with a variety of local subcontractors that include Goodfellow Bros. Inc., Hawaiian Dredging Construction Co., Inc. and South Pacific Steel — will commence with civil work, followed this summer by the installation of turbines.
The project will include 30 2.3-megawatt (MW) turbines manufactured by Siemens. The total capacity of 69 MW of wind energy the project is expected to generate will be enough to power about 14,500 homes per year, equal to 5 percent to 10 percent of Oahu's energy load, according to Kekoa Kaluhiwa, director of external affairs for First Wind in Hawaii. It will be the largest wind energy project in the state.
In addition to the turbines, the project also includes construction of two buildings, three fenced yards, two meteorological towers, a communications tower and connector lines. The complex is being built on former Kawailoa plantation land owned by Kamehameha Schools above Haleiwa. Lease revenues from the wind project will go to help promote agriculture in Kawailoa.
As with its other projects (Kaheawa plant in Maalaea, Maui, and the Kahuku wind farm – also built by RMT – on Oahu), First Wind developed a Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP), a conservation effort that includes research funding and actions to protect and minimize incidental harm to wildlife in the vicinity.
The Kawailoa Wind Farm is expected to be operational by the end of the year.

BIA Home Show Draws 20,000-plus Attendees

BI March, 2012 - Produced by the Building Industry Association of Hawaii (BIA), the 18th annual Home Building & Remodeling Show that was held from Jan. 27 to 29 at the Neal Blaisdell Exhibition Hall generated 22,884 attendees.
This is a 1 percent increase over the 2010 show and is the third largest attendance in the event's history.
Besides the 116 exhibitors showcasing their latest products and services, the show also included daily seminars conducted by award winning designers and industry experts.
The most popular exhibitors, according to the BIA, were those businesses that featured environmentally friendly, energy-efficient items, such as photovoltaic solar panels and windows, kitchen & bathroom products of sustainable materials that offer low maintenance and energy savings to homeowners.
"We are thrilled with the tremendous public response and our exhibitors are very excited to start 2012 with this level of interest and leads from the commercial and residential markets at the (show)," comments Karen Nakamura, BIA's CEO and executive vice president. "For many people, their home is their most valuable asset and we are proud to provide 'The Big Show's' array of products and services under one roof."

St. Francis to Build Multifamily Center

BI March, 2012 - St. Francis Healthcare System of Hawaii held a groundbreaking ceremony on Jan. 26 for a new Intergenerational Center that combines adult day care and preschool services. West Oahu residents will be able to drop off their aging parents and young children at one location, knowing that their family members will receive proper nurturing and care.
General contractor Coastal Construction Co., Inc. was expected to begin construction on the 1.25-acre site in February.
The new 15,000-square-foot center is intended to bring kupuna and keiki together for shared experiences. Located across from St. Francis' Franciscan Vistas, the facility will feature separate entrances; an adult day care room and lounge; four preschool classrooms; and an accessory use kitchen, where lunch will be prepared for the center.
In addition, several green and sustainable design features have been incorporated into the building, including high efficiency air conditioning systems, low-flow plumbing fixtures, gas appliances, Energy Star refrigerators, photovoltaic roof panels, LED/CFL lamps, occupancy controlled lights and air hand dryers in restrooms.
The adult day center will have the capacity to serve up to 42 adults each day, providing supervised support to those who may need assistance with activities of daily living and companionship during the day. Key benefits of adult day care are preventing loneliness and depression in older adults and reducing stress for caregivers.
Annually, the preschool is anticipated to serve up to 92 youngsters age 2 to 6 years, offering a Montessori-based program that will help prepare them for kindergarten and develop a positive attitude toward aging.
"Older adults can share their knowledge and life experiences with young children, while the children bring joy and a sense of wonder for the older adults," comments Jerry Correa, newly appointed president and CEO of St. Francis Healthcare System of Hawaii. "It's a win-win situation for both generations."
The project team also includes R.M. Towill Corp. (engineer), Alakea Design Group (architecture), and Miyabara Associates LLC (landscape architecture).
The new center is slated to open in the fall of 2012.

$12M Grant Funds New Chaminade Parking

BI March, 2012 - Monies from the Marianist Center of Hawaii is funding a new $11.8 million 228-stall parking structure to be used jointly by Chaminade University and St. Louis School.
The new facility, for which general contractor Albert C. Kobayashi, Inc. began construction in early fall 2011, is expected to be completed by the end of this year. Ushijima Architects, Inc., is the architecture firm. A blessing with members of the Marianist organization was held in mid-September 2011.
Besides the nearly $12 million for the parking structure, an additional $5.8 million will be used for storm drainage and other property improvements.
Over a span of seven years, the Marianists have committed $17.6 million in support of the 52-acre shared campus.
"The financial support received from the Marianist Center of Hawaii and the Marianist Province of the United States help ensure that our institutions can continue to educate our students with excellence," says Bro. Bernard Ploeger, SM, Ph.D., Chaminade University president. "We are filled with gratitude at their generosity and their confidence in us."

GCA Celebrates 80th Anniversary at Installation

BI March, 2012 - The General Contractors Association of Hawaii celebrated its 80th anniversary on Jan. 21 at The Royal Hawaiian hotel, along with its annual installation banquet.
Leading the association in its landmark year are:
• President: John Romanowski, Jas. W. Glover, Ltd.
• First Vice President: Marnie Koga Hursty, Mega Construction
• Second Vice President: Rick Heltzel, Healy Tibbitts Builders, Inc.
• Treasurer: Joyce Furukawa, Royal Contracting Co., Ltd.
• Executive Vice President/Secretary: Johnny Higa
Serving as immediate past president is Lyle Moody of Walker-Moody Construction Co., Ltd.
In 2012 the directors for the AGC (Associated General Contractors), the national affiliate of the GCA, are: Glenn Nohara, AGC life director; Gordon Scruton, AGC life director; Garrett Sullivan, Sullivan & Associates, Inc.; Lance Wilhelm, Kiewit Building Group, Inc.; and William Wilson, Hawaiian Dredging Construction Co., Inc.
Serving as past president directors are: Darrell Goo, Grace Pacific Corp.; Lance Inouye, Ralph S. Inouye Co., Ltd.; Glen Kaneshige, Nordic PCL Construction, Inc.; and Kathleen Thurston, Thurston-Pacific, Inc.
Also installed as directors are: George Ehara, Swinerton Builders; Sheri Mau: Kiewit Building Group; Kelvin Osborne, Watts Constructors, LLC; Kenneth Spence, Nordic PCL; Wesley Tsutsui, Albert C. Kobayashi, Inc.; and Raymond Nii, Grace Pacific.
Kaleo Nakamura of Alii Flooring is chairperson of GCA's Subcontractors Council.
Besides inducting its newest officers, another highlight of the evening was the presentation of committee awards. The Most Improved award went to the Subcontractors Council, and the finance committee earned the Outstanding Performance award.
Renowned local musician and activist Kapono was the evening's featured performer.

Carpenters Name 'Builder of the Year'

BI March, 2012 - Vincent Nihipali, Sr., owner of V & C Drywall Contractors, Inc., was named the 2012 Outstanding Union Builder of the Year by the Hawaii Carpenters Union, Local 745, on Jan. 11 at The Pacific Resource Partnership's (PRP) annual reception at the Oahu Country Club.
The award recognizes a union signatory contractor for exceptional contributions to union construction in Hawaii.
"Vince has made extraordinary contributions to the welfare of his union employees and the entire industry," said Ron Taketa, the union's executive secretary-treasurer, at the banquet. "He is also the first honoree who has the complete experience of union membership in Local 745, which makes this award truly well‐deserved."
"Vince is a true visionary leader and a shining example for our entire industry," adds John White, executive director of PRP. "He has built a company known for quality workmanship done by some of the finest union workers."
Nihipali began his career as a laborer in his father's construction company before joining the union in 1975 as a drywall apprentice. Seven years later, he achieved his career goal of opening his own company.
V & C Drywall Contractors, Inc., which began in a tiny office in Waianae, got its start when it was awarded the winning bid to plaster the tunnel of the H‐3 Freeway. The company has also worked on The Kahala Mandarin, the Pier 2 cruise terminal and numerous privatized military residential and training facilities on Oahu.
Nihipali also serves as president of the Hawaii Wall & Ceiling Contractors of Hawaii Association, west regional director of the Association of the Wall & Ceiling Industry, and co‐chair of the Hawaii Carpenters Apprenticeship and Training Trust Fund.
"I am truly honored to receive this award from an industry I've always had great passion for," says Nihipali.

HPCA Elects New Officers

BI March, 2012 - The Hawaii Pest Control Association (HPCA) recently elected its officers of 2012. They include:
• President: Jon Montalbo, Aloha Termite Kauai, Inc.
• First Vice President: Wayne Koide, Environ Control
• Second Vice President: Knut Peacock, Peacock Termite & Pest Control
• Third Vice President: Tammy Murray, Aloha Termite & Pest Control
• Secretary: Dave Lau, Ecolab
• Treasurer: Carlton Agena, Terminix Regional Office
The directors include: James Eschle, JLE, Inc.; Mohinder Maan, Diversified Exterminators; Alvin Fukuyama, State Termite and Pest Control; Richard Lee, Islander Pest Solutions; Jason Sahara, Oahu Termite & Pest Control; and Brian O'Neill, Terminix Regional Office.
Neighbor island directors consist of: Jerry Edlao of Accupest Termite and Pest Control and Vince Mozina of Bugman Termite and Pest Control for Maui; Gary Smith of Mokihana Pest Control and Montalbo for Kauai; and Rodney Ono of Hilo Termite and Pest Control and Kendall Horner of Terminix – Kona for the Big Island.
Terrance Manago of Hawaii Pest Solutions is the immediate past president and Tim Lyons continues to serve as HPCA's executive director.

Military Boosts End of Year Construction Spending

The Army has given Hawaii's construction business a big, year-end shot in the arm with a last minute award worth $34,835,245. The job, awarded Dec. 29 to BCP Construction of Hawaii, is for construction and alterations to structures and facilities at the old Barber's Point Naval Air Station and will provide administration rooms, a work base and machine welding shops for the Hawaii National Guard.

The job swells the total value of agency awards for December to $56,190,876, well above the previous year's December total of just under $7 million. Even with this boost, however, the grand total of $430,742,749 for agency work for the past year is still far short of 2010's banner year total of $1,056,555,072. But it does bode well for the Pacific region's potential for further military spending even in a year predicted to see large cuts in military spending.

The award winner, BCP Construction has been Hawaii based since 1981 and is currently winding down two projects; safety improvements at Aloha Stadium worth $18 million and renovations at McKinley High School worth $5 million.

A&B to Purchase CompUSA Site

A&B Properties has agreed to purchase the site of the former CompUSA from Kamehameha School and is planning to develop a new residential condominium tower.

The property is bordered by Keawe, South and Auahi streets and is adjacent to Kamehameha's recently announced 60,000-square-foot specialty retail and village center. It is entitled for high-rise residential development, but may also include commercial space. For more info, click here.

Hawaii May Receive $490M in Federal Funding

It looks as though Hawaii will be on the receiving end of more than $490 million this fiscal year through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2012 — and we have Hawaii Sen. Daniel Inouye to thank for much of the action.
Inouye, who is chairman of the powerful Senate Committee on Appropriations, says there was much more he wanted to do but there were limitations in this difficult budget year. "However," he says, "we secured funding for very important projects in Hawaii. These federal finds will create jobs by supporting education, infrastructure and our military." Good news in the wake of the "Super Committee's" failure to make necessary federal budget cuts which is resulting in across the board cuts, including potential slashes to military budgets. Inouye underscores the military's importance to Hawaii, saying, "Hawaii is a critical part of our national defense and our position in the Pacific means we must support out residents, visitors and military with essential government services to ensure that we are prepared for any situation." The Consolidated Appropriations Bill approved Saturday by the Senate now awaits President Barack Obama's signature. Stay tuned for further news on this vital issue. In the meantime, be sure to read our Military cover story in the January issue of Building Industry magazine, just leaving the press.

ABC Honors Best Merit Shop Projects

Recognizing the best in Hawaii construction projects involving merit shop contractors,
the Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc., Hawaii chapter presented its annual
Excellence in Construction Awards on Nov. 22 at the Hawaii Okinawa Center.

"Best of the Best" Awards

• President's Choice of Excellence Award —
Lewis Electric LLC; project: USS Arizona Memorial Visitor Center Replacement; category: commercial construction, more than $1 million
 The USS Arizona Memorial visitor center is one of Hawaii's most visited sites in the state. Lewis Electric provided all new underground utilities while maintaining existing visitor center operations, a significant challenge for the kamaaina firm.
• Project of the Year, under $1 million — Consolidated Painting LLC; project: HRT medical office building (Hale Pawaa); category: specialty construction/healthcare, less than $500,000
 Consolidated Painting's involvement with this project included installing commercial grade vinyl wall coverings in all interior corridors, elevator lobbies and common entry areas. Also painting and coating of all other common area stairways and utility rooms was completed as well as color coding of piping in the mechanical room. Consolidated Painting was able to overcome prefabrication challenges and deliver this project on time and on budget.
• Project of the Year, more than $1 million — Niking Corp.; project: Install Photovoltaic Systems - Pearl Harbor; category: electrical, more than $5 million
 Niking Corp. performed the design and construction of grid-tied photovoltaic (PV) power systems on the rooftops of Buildings 150, 617, 631, 654 and 1684. All PV systems are compliant with current NEC (National Electric Code) and UL (Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.) requirements and designed in accordance with NAVFAC (Naval Facilities Engineering Command) Hawaii public work utilities criteria.
• Excellence in Marketing Award — Heartwood Pacific LLC; project: Lokahi Low-Income Housing Renovation; category: residential construction, more than $1 million
 Owned by the State of Hawaii and managed by Hawaii Public Housing Authority, this project included 15 buildings consisting of 30 units total. It was the first construction done at the development since the 1950s.

Grand Awards

• Lewis Electric — project: Submarine Drive-In Magnetic Treatment Facility OPN Installation; category: specialty construction / electrical, less than $1 million
• Consolidated Painting — project: Renovation of 25 N. Hotel St.; category: historical restoration, less than $500,000
• Lewis Electric — project: Replace Electrical Distribution at Wharf S-1; category: restoration/renovation, less than $500,000
• Heartwood Pacific — project: Security Lighting and Vertical Access Wind Turbine; category: electrical, more than $250,000
• Electrical Contractors Hawaii, Inc. — project: Kahuku Wind Farm; category: electrical, more than $100,000
• Heartwood Pacific — project: Volcano Emergency Operations Center; category: green build/LEED certified, less than $1 million
• Lewis Electric — project: Replace Hydrant Fuel System; category: industrial construction, less than $500,000
• Niking Corp. — project: Modernize Sunset Lanai Building 500 Camp Smith; category: restoration/renovation, more than $500,000
• Heartwood Pacific — project: Volcano House Fire & Seismic Retrofit; category: historical restoration, less than $1 million
• Lewis Electric — project: Sub Drive-In MSF; category: heavy construction, more than $1 Million

A&B, Matson Separate

Alexander & Baldwin, Inc. (A&B) announced on Dec. 1 plans to separate A&B and its wholly owned subsidiary Matson into two independent, publicly traded companies:
A&B will maintain its focus on real estate development, commercial real estate and agriculture, while Matson also will continue in transportation and logistics.
Under the plan, shareholders will own one share of both A&B and Matson stock for each share of company stock owned.
The separation is expected to be completed in the second half of 2012.
"This separation will create two financially strong public companies, each with more than $1 billion in assets, a thousand employees, strong balance sheets and cash flow to fund future growth," says Walter Dods, A&B chairman. "The strength of our combined businesses has historically served us well. However, we have reached the point in the growth and development of each of our businesses where they can better achieve their full potential by operating as separate companies."
Explaining further, Stanley Kuriyama, A&B president and CEO, says, "The planned separation does not involve the sale of either business. Both companies will be incorporated and based in Hawaii, and will be among the largest companies in the state. There will be no interruption in operations or service to our communities, and more importantly, our customers, vendors, government officials, and the general public will not experience changes in the way we do business or people they do business with.
Upon completion of the transaction, A&B will be led by Kuriyama, who will serve as its chairman and CEO. Christopher Benjamin, currently president of A&B Land Group, will serve as A&B's president and COO. Paul Ito, the company's controller and assistant treasurer, will serve as A&B's CFO.
Dods will serve as Matson's chairman while Matthew Cox, currently president of Matson, will serve as its president and CEO, and Joel Wine, A&B's present CFO, will serve as Matson's CFO upon completion of the transaction.

Partnering for Smart Grid Project

Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Hideo Hato, president of Japan-based New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), signed a memorandum of understanding at the State Capitol on Nov. 22 to develop a smart grid demonstration project on Maui.
The $37 million project is aimed at improving integration of variable renewable resources, such as solar and wind power, and preparing the electric system for widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
"Hawaii's clean energy industry has shown significant year-to-year growth, and it is becoming a strong driver in our economy," commented Abercrombie at the event. "This project … will further position Hawaii as an international leader in the clean energy space, serving as a hot spot for global investment and research and development."
The project's contractors, Hitachi, Ltd., Cyber Defense Institute, Inc. and Mizuho Corporate Bank, Ltd., will cooperate with the State of Hawaii, the Hawaiian Electric Co., the University of Hawaii and the United States National Laboratories.
Installation of the smart grid technology is expected to begin in late 2012, with the project becoming operational in 2013. Scheduled to run from 2013-2015, the project is part of the Hawaii-Okinawa Partnership on Clean and Efficient Energy Development and Deployment, which was signed by the U.S. Department of Energy, Japan Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (NEDO is an arm of this department), State of Hawaii and Prefecture of Okinawa in June 2010.
"It is our great pleasure to be provided a special opportunity to work along with Hawaii in a cutting-edge smart grid project under the Japan-U.S. Clean Energy Policy," said Hato. "Such mutual collaboration will contribute to a breakthrough toward a solution needed by both countries, expansion of renewable energy and integration of grid networks. We hope that this project will provide a model for island grids in the Asia-Pacific region and across the globe."
Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, with year-round sun, trade winds, and home to one of the earth's most active volcanoes, Hawaii is considered to be one of the few places in the world capable of harnessing solar, wind, geothermal and ocean thermal energy – all within a 200-mile span.

Core Contract Signed

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) signed a contract with Ansaldo Honolulu JV on Nov. 28 for the Honolulu rail project's core systems.
The $1.4 billion contract includes the design, construction and delivery of the train vehicles and the train control systems ($574 million), and the operation and maintenance of the system after installation over a 14-year period ($830 million). It calls for the delivery of the first 16 vehicles in 2014, with the remainder due in 2018.
"Our extensive review of Ansaldo Honolulu JV's finances showed that they have the capacity to successfully deliver the core systems contract," says Toru Hamayasu, HART's interim executive director and CEO. "We have strong safeguards in bonds and guarantees to protect us. But more importantly, I believe we selected a responsible contractor with a solid commitment to delivering a world-class system for Honolulu."
With this milestone, 50 percent of the rail project's design and construction contracts have been awarded. With utility relocation under way, construction of the guideway is expected to begin in the first quarter this year. The first section of the system, from East Kapolei to Aloha Stadium is expected to open in 2015, followed by the second section, extending to Kalihi, in 2017. Estimated completion of the entire route is 2019.

Hawaii Developers' Real Estate Forecast

The Hawaii Developers' Council's recent Real Estate Forecast presentation featuring panelists representing major real estate sectors, was surprisingly upbeat about several areas. Scott Higashi, executive vice president of sales for Prudential Locations, addressing residential real estate, said, "2011 was a little better than 2010. Even though the sales increase is slow, signs are positive—there is upward trending." In an interesting sidebar, he explained that traditionally, out-of-state buyers made up the majority of investors. "But now, investment buying is mostly local." Higashi also reported, "Luxury market sales actually are up, which is good sign. It means they still have money or they are able to borrow."
Mike Hamasu, director of consulting and research for Colliers Monroe Freidlander, summarizing the office and investment marketplace, stressed that with the continued economic uncertainty, "the investment outlook is still a wildcard." However, he pointed out, "The financial market seems to be thawing as lenders seek to place loans." Hamasu sees development "trending to urban infill, select retail and timeshares."
The news for the office market is not quite so hopeful, as vacancy rates have risen for the fifth year. "But by the end of 2012, we hope to see some positive absorbency rates."
Wendell Brooks III, senior vice president of CB Richard Ellis, gave the forecast for retail, calling it, "by far the healthiest sector," and went on to outline a long list of projects that more than proved his point, from regional malls ("extremely healthy") to visitor-oriented centers ("also healthy") and more national retailers who are coming into Hawaii or expanding their presence here and in some cases, (T.J. Maxx for example,) returning to Hawaii.
Joe Toy, president and CEO of Hospitality Advisors, and C. Mark Ambard, principal broker/owner Ambard & Company Real Estate, rounded out the panel, with Toy saying the picture is not as bad as people say it is. "We're seeing a lot of pent-up demand from people who want to come to Hawaii," he said, also reporting that "timeshares have almost doubled since 2000, and the number of bed and breakfasts and condos also is up." He sees the outlook for 2012 as "good, with continued recovery."
Ambard was not quite as upbeat, saying it probably will be another three to four years for real recovery in the marketplace. "But we reached the bottom in the second quarter of 2011. Hawaii will recover!"

IBEW Renovation Earns LEED Gold

The renovation of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) headquarters, designed by Architects Hawaii, Ltd. (AHL), recently was awarded LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council.
The certification was based on a number of green design and construction features, including:
• reduced water use by 40 percent through high efficiency plumbing fixtures.
• diverted more than 61 percent of construction waste through deconstruction and recycling
• use of rapidly renewable materials
• use of daylighting, high-efficiency lighting and occupancy sensors, including the installation of four 14-inch solar tubes through the open ceiling to spread the daylighting into the interior spaces
• high efficiency heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems
• use of low-emitting VOC materials: paint, carpet, adhesives and sealants
• furniture: a sustainable manufacturer with a strong global vision to realize sustainable products
"We are fortunate to partner with clients who have a genuine commitment to the environment," says Bill Brizee, AIA, CSI, CCCA, CDP, LEED®-AP, AHL's president and chief executive officer. "We strive to combine our expertise and their passion to create solutions that will reduce the demand for energy and reduce the carbon footprint."

Sunetric Illuminates Honolulu City Lights

The popular Honolulu City Lights holiday display last month featured the first-ever exhibit entirely powered by solar energy. Called "Santa Goes Solar," the nonprofit Blue Planet Foundation's 8-foot diorama of Santa's workshop and village was powered by a state-of-the-art, solar photovoltaic canopy designed and built by Sunetric.
The display was constructed by members of the Lego Enthusiasts Association of Hawaii with members of the University of Hawaii Solar Decathlon Team Hawaii engineering its array of high-tech LED lights. The solar canopy produced 3.6 kilowatt hours (kWh) a day, with an on-site battery pack storing up to 6.9 kWh.
"It's an honor to put the 'green' in the green and red at Santa's village this holiday season, and highlight the importance of renewable energy in Hawaii," said Alex Tiller, chief executive officer of Sunetric, when the display was constructed in late November.
Sunetric's donation included hours of engineering, design and construction work, as well as more than $5,000 in materials.

Hyatt Place Opens in Waikiki

A blessing and maile lei untying ceremony in December marked the opening of the first of two towers at Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach
"Today marks a special moment in our company's history, with the opening of Kokua's first Hawaiian property and the opening of the first Hyatt Place in Hawaii," said Rob Kline, co-chairman of Kokua Hospitality, the management company overseeing the development of Hyatt Place Waikiki, at the event.
In addition to an expansive pool deck that features a fire pit and seating for up to 200, Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach currently features 191 rooms, with an additional 235 rooms to become available when the second tower, the Diamond Tower, opens in spring 2012.
All rooms feature balconies, complimentary Wi-Fi access and a 42-inch high-definition television. Hotel amenities include a business center and tourism desk, a bakery café, StayFit@Hyatt fitness center, and 4,200 square feet of function space for meetings, receptions and conferences.
Swinerton Builders began the renovation of the former Waikiki Ocean Resort in April 2011 and will continue to work on the Diamond Tower. Architects for the project are Looney Ricks Kiss and Group 70 International.
Kokua Hospitality also hosted a traditional "LuWOW" reception complete with performances by hula dancers and fire eaters on the third-floor pool deck.
"As the first Hyatt Place property to be located in Hawaii, we plan to provide our personalized service to each and every guest to ensure that we exceed all of their expectations and create a wonderful trip, no matter why they are in town," concludes Bonnie Kiyabu, general manager of Hyatt Place Waikiki.

Hawaii County Dedicates Transitional Housing

The first phase of a low-income rental and transitional housing complex in West Hawaii that also will provide job training and life skills opened on Nov. 22.
Previously known simply as Kaloko transitional housing, the community
was formally dedicated and is now named Na Kaulana Kauhale O Ulu Wini.
The first phase, built by Big Island-based Isemoto Contracting Co., Inc., consists of the first 40 homes of the projected 96-unit complex along with a 2,600-square-foot community center. Sitework began on April 27, 2010, followed by the start of vertical construction on June 4, 2010. Media5 Architecture of Honolulu was the project architect.
"If we truly represent aloha, then we have to not just talk about projects," said Mayor Billy Kenoi, who was joined at the blessing by members of the county Office of Housing and Community Development and Hope Services Hawaii, which will operate it. "We have to deliver."
Twenty eight of the 40 completed units are targeted for families who earn 30 to 50 percent of the area median income. The balance, comprised of identical two-bedroom, 750-square-foot homes, will be designated for homeless families who can occupy them for as long as two years, in return for in-kind services.
Contractor selection for the next phase is being finalized, and the county hopes to start construction in the first quarter of 2012. Also part of the complex is an educational training facility, for which construction is expected to start in the second quarter of 2012.
The community also will provide case management, mail and computer access along with an array of on-site social services such as employment and life skills training, mental health services, counseling and childcare.
The community center includes laundry facilities, a common kitchen and meeting area, administrative offices for the program operator, and a dividable multipurpose room for classes and meetings.
The complex will be powered via photovoltaic energy, and when completed, 80 percent of the water needed for irrigation will be produced by an on-site wastewater treatment plant.
On Nov. 18, Kenoi also formally opened model homes at Kamakoa Nui, which will eventually be a 1,200 unit workforce housing community near employment centers in Waikoloa.

BIA Installs New 2012 Leadership

The Building Industry Association of Hawaii (BIA Hawaii) hosted its 57th annual installation banquet on Dec. 7 at The Royal Hawaiian Monarch Room.
BIA Hawaii's new slate of officers for 2012 include:
• President: Dean Asahina, Universal Construction, Inc.
• President-Elect: Greg Thielen, Complete Construction Services Corp.
• Vice-President: Brian Adachi, BKA Builders, Inc.
• Secretary: Michael Brant, Gentry Homes, Ltd.
• Treasurer: Timothy Waite, Simpson Strong-Tie Co., Inc.
• Special Appointee - Builder: Paul Silen, Hawaiian Dredging Construction Co., Inc.
• Special Appointee - Associate: Craig Washofsky, Servco Home & Appliance Distribution
James Byxbee of Homeworks Construction, Inc. will serve as immediate past president, and Karen Nakamura continues as the organization's executive vice president, chief executive officer.
BIA Hawaii's board of directors are: Scotty Anderson, Pacific Rim Partners; W. Bruce Barrett, Castle & Cooke Homes Hawaii, Inc.; David Chang, CS Design Builders; Clifton Crawford, C & J Contracting, Inc.; James Dixon, Island Insurance Co., Ltd.; Karin Holma, Bays Lung Rose & Holma; Mark Kennedy, Haseko Construction, Inc.; Marnie Koga-Hursty, Mega Construction, Inc.; Gary Okimoto, Honolulu Wood Treating; Guy Shindo, First Hawaiian Bank; Dean Uchida, SSFM International, Inc.; and Sunny Walsh, Hunt Building Co., Ltd.

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