Developer Hopes for Resolution on Kihei Malls

Eclipse Development image of the planned development area.

By Wendy Osher

The impacts of Hawaii’s Land Use Commission decision last week against the proposed Kihei Malls in South Maui has drawn public comment from the project developer.

The “Kihei Malls” development includes Piilani Promenade North (shopping mall), Piilani Promenade South (shopping center), Honua’lua (residential) (aka Wailea 670) plus related projects.

Douglas Gray, president and CEO of Eclipse Development Group LLC, developers of the Piilani Promenade, today expressed concern over the anticipated lay offs that contractors say are being imposed as a result of the ruling.

“I am disappointed at the decision of the LUC and saddened at the impact on the jobs of workers who were slated to begin the grading and infrastructure work for the project. It is my hope that we can quickly come to a resolution that will put people back to work and create up to 1,800 jobs when the promenade is completed,” Gray said in a media statement today.

“Unfortunately, the economy continues to grow at a rate that is not producing enough jobs. This project, when completed, will keep the economy of Maui moving forward and help families pay for their rent and mortgages, make car payments, buy groceries, obtain medical care and meet other expenses that must be paid for everyday,” he added in the statement.

The LUC issued the decision saying the project was in violation of a 1995 order, and outlined three alleged violations of conditions.