Hilton Hawaiian Village plans to expand its resort in Waikiki by constructing a new 350-foot tower. This project will add 459 hotel rooms and 56 suites, replacing existing smaller structures. While the Hilton promises benefits such as public art and festivals, local residents have raised alarms about overtourism and worsening traffic conditions. Public hearings revealed strong opposition, with some residents claiming that the proposed expansion will exacerbate existing congestion and safety issues in the area. As Hilton continues its development, community concerns appear to be mounting.
"I think they could do so much with the property that they have. And the Grand Islander is not fully sold out," he continued, referring to Hilton's latest tower, which opened in 2017.
"I fervently disagree with the planned Hilton tower in Waikiki. The island has enough traffic, people, and overpopulation as it is," Justin Michalek said in written testimony submitted in 2021.
Hilton said the tower will "improve connectivity & revitalize Ala Moana Blvd. as the Ewa gateway to Waikiki," but residents have voiced concerns about overtourism.
"They're gonna do what they want to do. And it's just, it's an unsafe environment," Ron Fotopoulos, a Waikiki resident, told KHON2, referring to increased traffic and safety issues.
Collection
[
|
...
]