Ewa Developer's Switch from Marina to Lagoon Raises Legal Issues

Sophie Cocke/Civil Beat

Thirty years ago, officials from Tokyo-based Haseko, a multi-billion-dollar real estate development firm, pitched state officials an ambitious plan for Ewa Beach.

They would build a maritime community of 7,200 homes, resort lodgings, parks, a ferry service to Honolulu and a host of other amenities.

The plan has evolved through the years, but its centerpiece has always been a marina, which the company said could be a world-class boating destination, hosting international yachting competitions on the scale of the America’s Cup.

Stores, restaurants and boat repair shops would surround the 110-acre waterway, equipped with 1,400 boat slips. The commercial complex alone was expected to create 1,500 jobs.

But last month, after three decades of planning, Haseko announced that there would be no marina. Instead there would be a lagoon, with no outlet to the ocean. Rather than opulent boat races, it would be better suited for swimming and leisurely stand-up paddle boarding.

The sudden switch has angered some residents, sparked talk of lawsuits and raised questions about whether state and county officials can hold developers to their promises.

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