NEWSLETTER

April 2025

Project Update

The project recently achieved a key milestone, as the archaeological inventory survey (AIS) for the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District (NASED) was accepted by the State Historic Preservation Division. Acceptance of the AIS is a key requirement before various demolition and construction activities can commence on site. Associated with this, the project team recently commenced photography of the existing stadium and other site features for the production of a Historic American Buildings Survey report. The report will document and preserve the design of the existing Aloha Stadium through measured drawings and photographs. Once complete, the report will be submitted to the Library of Congress.

The Swap Meet & Marketplace relocation to the Upper Hālawa Lot continues to progress on site. Anticipated completion is this summer 2025 and vendors will move to the new location shortly after. For the latest updates visit the stadium’s website: alohastadium.hawaii.gov.

During this current phase of the procurement process, the state project team and Aloha Halawa District Partners (AHDP) continue to work on a range of diligence, technical and other matters. AHDP has commenced a range of diligence studies on site, including environmental and geotechnical analyses. The expectation is the state and AHDP will execute a range of agreements by June 2025.

The NASED procurement process remains active. Further details of AHDP’s proposal will continue to be made public through community outreach activities that began during the diligence and discussion phase.

Businesses or organizations that would like to register their interest with AHDP may submit their contact information on the “Doing Business” page on the project website: https://nased.hawaii.gov/doing-business/

FAQs – Community Q&A

Representatives from the NASED team regularly attend the monthly Neighborhood Board (NB) No. 18 (Āliamanu / Salt Lake / Foster Village/ Airport), Neighborhood Board (NB) No. 20 (‘Aiea), and ‘Aiea Community Association (ACA) meetings to provide members of each board, the public and elected officials with updates and to answer questions on the NASED project. Here's a question from a community member from this month’s NB No. 20 meeting relating to funding:

Q: Please clarify how the $350 million State funding will be spent, and how "additional funds" are being used. Will taxpayers be responsible for the additional funding, including funds for future phases?

A: As directed by the Legislature, the current NASED plan of finance does not envision additional state funding beyond what has been appropriated thus far. The $350 million is designated for the costs to build the new stadium, and a portion of $49.5 million in special funds will supplement this allocation. Any additional costs will need to be borne by the developer, through private capital, and through grants and/or donations that both the developer and government agencies at the state and county levels are actively seeking. None of these funds will need to be paid from current tax means.

We are also exploring additional funding opportunities that would be repaid by future tax income that does not currently exist. These include Tax Increment Financing and Community Finance Development. Both utilize county-issued bonds that would be repaid from future property taxes collected from the development of the stadium property. At this point in time, the county is not collecting any real property taxes from the entire state-owned site. So it wouldn't be an additional tax burden on the public. The cost for development of future phases would otherwise be borne by the developer.

More Community Q&As

More FAQs

In The News

Stadium Authority Chair Brennon Morioka was interviewed on ESPN Honolulu's Let's Talk Sports, where he discussed the latest project milestones and where NASED is headed next. Listen to the full episode at this link.

State officials and AHDP remain on track to open the new Aloha Stadium by the 2028 football season, most recently supported by a Pre-Development Agreement (PDA) signed March 31. The PDA allows AHDP to begin demolition prep and permits work while finalizing the broader contract. Read the full story on the Honolulu Star-Advertiser at this link.

What's Going on at Aloha Stadium

Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace - Explore, Engage & Play

Open three days a week, the Swap Meet & Marketplace is more than just a place to shop — it’s an experience! With over 400 local vendors, 'ono food trucks, and live entertainment at our Ho‘okipa Hale Stage, it’s easy to spend the day soaking it all in. Discover unique gifts, handmade crafts, and one-of-a-kind finds at unbeatable prices.

Stay connected and informed on relocation updates, upcoming events, the entertainment schedule, new arrivals, and exclusive promotions by following us on Facebook @alohastadiumhawaii and Instagram @alohastadiumhi. Visit our website for more details and to plan your visit https://alohastadium.hawaii.gov/.

Swap Meet & Marketplace Hours

Wednesday & Saturday: 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Sunday: 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Admission Rate

All parking gates are CASH ONLY

$2.00 general admission for 12 years and older

$1.00 admission for Kamaʻāina (Hawai'i residents) and Active Military w/ valid ID

Free admission for 11 years and under

www.alohastadium.hawaii.gov

Swap Meet & Marketplace Relocation Work

Continues in Upper Hālawa Lot

Progress continues at the Aloha Stadium Upper Hālawa Lot as MEI Corporation leads ongoing site improvement efforts in preparation for the Swap Meet & Marketplace relocation.

Over the past few weeks, underground utility work has made steady headway, and the next phase is now underway. Seal coating and pavement striping have officially begun, with crews working diligently to complete the surface treatments that will define new stall and pedestrian areas. In addition to surface improvements, underground electrical installations and other foundational tasks remain ongoing.

We appreciate your continued support and patience during this transition and look forward to unveiling a refreshed Swap Meet & Marketplace experience in the near future!

Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace Vendor Spotlight

Level Up Your Lei Game: Money Pāpale Bring a Stylish

Twist to Graduation Gifts!

Graduation season in Hawaiʻi is a time filled with pride, aloha, and cherished traditions — and one of the most beloved is the giving of money lei. But this year, there’s a stylish new twist turning heads: the money pāpale.

While beautifully folded money lei remain a classic way to honor grads, money pāpale — traditional Hawaiian-style hats adorned with carefully folded currency — offer a fresh, wearable, and unforgettable take on this time-honored tradition.

Leading the way is local artisan Uncle Oku, a familiar face at the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace. His handmade money pāpale blend cultural craftsmanship with a personal touch, each piece created with intention and infused with the spirit of aloha. These stunning hats are more than just a gift — they’re a statement piece and keepsake rolled into one.

You can explore Uncle Oku’s unique creations in person at the Swap Meet or browse his work on Instagram: @uncle_oku_papale_niu

Whether you're honoring a high school grad, college graduate, or someone celebrating a milestone, consider giving a money pāpale this season — a bold, meaningful way to crown their achievement and carry on tradition with a fresh twist. Celebrate with style, support local artisans, and make this graduation season one to remember.

This Month in History

In the Community

Class of 2025 Graduations

It’s hard to believe high school graduations are just around the corner! The Hawai‘i State Department of Education has announced graduation ceremony dates, times and locations for the Class of 2025. Click here to view the list of statewide commencement celebrations.

Visit our Website