Revised rules for Kakaako mostly sound

In Kakaako’s rail future, public parking could eventually die a slow death, business hotels might be built and mega-tall towers won’t be allowed.

That’s what’s envisioned for Kakaako in a revised draft for transit- oriented development (TOD) rules in the 450-acre area bounded by Ala Moana Boulevard and King, Piikoi and Punchbowl streets where two rail stations are planned.

The revised rules by the Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) overall are laudable, especially those that would eliminate extra-tall towers — a few at 700 feet — that former Gov. Neil Abercrombie had endorsed in a 2013 plan.

TOD rules would be optional in Kakaako, but developers would likely jump at the chance to increase density and build fewer parking stalls — both major components of the revised draft.

Such options open opportunity for creativity to optimize development space, but, as always, public benefit must guide project approvals.

Under the proposed rule revisions, the number of parking spaces required for new residential projects would be reduced.

That’s a logical move in a transit-oriented community where residents, in theory at least, would be less dependent on cars.

HCDA sees more centralized parking sites, to be shared. But it’s worrisome when HCDA said it hopes to implement a pilot program with the city, which would regulate on-street parking, to convert some time-limited street parking on Cooke Street to metered parking without time limits.

Rates initially would be set low to gauge demand then rise, and if successful, the program could expand.

It’s unclear, though, how such a program would benefit the public at large. Residents could commandeer public stalls, diminishing the supply for folks who work or play in the area and need to park.

Those who rely on street parking will have to closely monitor the pilot program to prevent the taking over of public parking for private use.

Another unique aspect of the revised-rules plan, which HCDA presented to its board Wednesday, would allow development of hotels with fewer amenities that cater to business travelers. Those travelers would be a transit ride away from Honolulu International Airport as well as the business district.

Although two existing master plans cover the TOD area, the TOD rules would be optional and provide incentives for developers to make projects more conducive to pedestrian, bike and transit use.

The draft plan could see more revisions based on HCDA board suggestions, and the public is encouraged to weigh in on a final draft at two public hearings.

Optimistically, the Kakaako of the future would be a bustling, thriving metropolis that radiates from the area’s two rail stations.

It’s a lofty ideal, but it also hinges on the rail line reaching the area in a timely fashion — and on its current track, there’s no telling how long that wait will be.