The Ala Moana Transit-Oriented Development Master Plan proposes transforming the district through increased density, pedestrian experience improvements, inter-modal connectivity, and sustainability. The proposal creates new urban density at the end of the Honolulu Rapid Transit (HRT) line that connects the neighborhood to the Honolulu International Airport and downtown.
The project relies on four primary planning strategies to improve the urban development: A central TOD district, completed streets, improved density, and an improved pedestrian experience. The central TOD district defines the urban core of the development, utilizing the HRT line stop as the central node. Street improvements such as lane and curb adjustments, intersection improvements, and addition of bike lanes help to promote bicycle transit and create a more pedestrian-friendly walking experience. New towers with office and residential programs increase the density along the 2 main corridors and allow for people to both live and work at the heart of the development. The final and primary objective of the project is to improve the pedestrian experience through the addition of new landscaping and green spaces, a clearer hierarchy in urban spatial experience, sharing of the roadways with pedestrians and bicycle traffic, as well as integrating multi-level pedestrian interchanges.
The Ala Moana plan seeks to integrate itself with existing amenities that the site offers creating stronger neighborhood and community links. Major existing green park spaces are connected through a new network of lushly planted boulevards. A stronger connection to the Ala Moana Beach Park is achieved by improving the pedestrian linkage to the ocean edge.
The Ala Moana Development Plan is an example of how pragmatic planning at the pedestrian level can transform the whole experience of a neighborhood. By integrating, rather than imposing a design, existing community fabric is enhanced, unique neighborhood character is retained, and the pedestrian experience is re-connected.
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