On the Rise: Two New Affordable Rental Communities in Central O‘ahu

Photo: Courtesy of EAH Housing

Update – July 23, 2025: As of this summer, leasing is underway at Aloha Iā Halewilikō and residents will begin moving in this August. See below for a newly released photo of the community.  Also, the development referred to as Hālawa View II in the print version of this story is now Nāulu Apartments. See below for recent photos of the development, along with additional details.

Unlike urban Honolulu, new developments are few and far between in Central O‘ahu. So, when a fresh build hits the skyline, we take notice.

Aloha Iā Halewilikō

Seated on the 3.45-acre site of the former ‘Aiea Sugar Mill, Aloha Iā Halewilikō is a $62 million project from nonprofit developer EAH Housing, planned for completion in October. An affordable rental community for seniors age 62 and older, the three-story building includes 83 studios and 56 one-bedroom apartments; some of those units will be designated for households at or below 30%, 50% and 60% of the area median income.

Photo: Anthony Consillio

Along with elevator service, a multipurpose room, tech lounge and fitness room, Aloha Iā Halewilikō will also feature outdoor gathering spaces, gardens and a dog park. An on-site resource coordinator will facilitate gatherings, educational courses, wellness activities and health care services. EAH is also partnering with Lanakila Pacific to provide meal distribution.

99-385 Pōhai Place, ‘Aiea, (808) 556-5531, eahhousing.org, @eah.housing

SEE ALSO: O‘ahu’s Great Neighborhoods

Photo: Pacific Development Group

Nāulu Apartments

Taking shape on a 3.11-acre site in lower Hālawa, across the highway from the USS Arizona Memorial, the $168.1 million Nāulu Apartments development is slated for completion this summer. Born from a partnership between the state of Hawai‘i, the City and County of Honolulu and California-based Pacific Development Group, the 18-story, 302-unit building will offer one-, two- and four-bedroom rental units.

The new build is phase two of the Hālawa View Apartments project. In phase one, a 1970s Hālawa high-rise was remodeled in 2014; it’s easily recognizable for its 14-story mural by local artist Kamea Hadar. Along with onsite parking, bike storage and laundry, amenities will include barbecue and picnic areas, a fitness center, sky lounge, study lounge and kids club. Select units will be reserved for households earning up to 30%, 40%, 50% and 60% of the area median income, with five units designated for chronically homeless individuals or those receiving public support services.

99-009 Kalaloa St., ‘Aiea, (808) 850-0512, nauluhawaii.com, pacificdg.com, @pacificdevgroup