Aloha Stadium Renovation Faces Delays Amid Contract Finalization

The long-anticipated renovation of Aloha Stadium has encountered further delays, with the projected completion date now set for March 2029.

 

Despite these setbacks, demolition of the existing structure is slated to commence by the end of August 2025.

 

Negotiations between the state and Aloha Halawa District Partners (AHDP) have been extended to mid-August to finalize critical agreements.

 

These include the ground lease and operational agreements essential for the project's progression.

 

Stadium Authority Board Chair Eric Fujimoto emphasized the importance of thoroughness in these negotiations, stating, "We understand all documents have been finalized and are with all parties right now and are under administrative review. We're focused on that win, that we've hit that milestone."

 

The new stadium is planned to have a seating capacity of 22,500, down from the initially proposed 25,000, and will feature 10 luxury boxes.

 

It is designed to accommodate football, soccer, and rugby events.

 

The state has committed $350 million to the project, with AHDP responsible for securing the remaining funds, estimated between $125 and $150 million.

 

Demolition permits have been approved, and preparatory work is scheduled to begin in October.

 

The stadium's swap meet will be relocated to the upper Halawa lot on October 1 to accommodate vendors and shoppers during the construction period.

 

While the delays are disappointing, officials remain optimistic that the project will ultimately provide a state-of-the-art facility for the community.