New Law to Breathe New Life into Aloha Stadium

Governor David Ige signed a bill into law that aims to breathe new life into Aloha Stadium and surrounding areas.  HB1586, now ACT 268, establishes the Stadium Development District and puts the state’s Aloha Stadium lands under the jurisdiction of the Stadium Authority.

The bill appropriates $20 million in general funds to develop the district for public use and authorizes the issuance of up to $180 million in revenue bonds and $150 million in general obligation bonds to build a new stadium.

“Aloha Stadium has served as a vital gathering place for some 40 years now, where residents and visitors come together to enjoy athletic events and concerts. The recent Bruno Mars, Eagles and Guns and Roses concerts, as well as the upcoming L.A. Rams game – make it very clear that Hawai‘i needs to invest in a new stadium to serve our state for generations to come,” said Gov. Ige.

“This is a momentous day for our community and the State. The creation of the Stadium Development District will showcase an innovative model for more cost-effective public infrastructure through public-private partnerships, will create economic growth, and will literally help to build additional community in a region that has long born the cost of hosting much of Hawaii’s public infrastructure,” said Representative Aaron Ling Johanson (Moanalua, Red Hill, Foster Village, ‘Aiea, Fort Shafter, Moanalua Gardens, Āliamanu and Lower Pearlridge). “The development of additional community on the stadium parcel will help to link existing neighborhoods and communities, the Pearl Harbor Historic sites, and the rail in a more seamless and natural way. This day is about a renaissance of our ‘Aiea-Stadium community.”

Gov. Ige also signed a bill into law that appropriates $4 million to assist athletics programs at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and Hilo. The funds will go toward student athletes, operations and team travel.

Rep. Aaron Ling Johanson (left), Gov. David Ige and Sen. Glenn Wakai at the bill signing to revitalize the stadium today. Photo by House of Representatives – Majority Democrats