Kapolei

Kapolei
Name	Kapolei
Settlement type	City
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	United States
Subdivision type1	State
Subdivision name1	Hawaii
Subdivision type2	County
Subdivision name2	Honolulu County
Leader title	Mayor
Leader name	Rick Blangiardi
Area total sq mi	4.9
Population total	21694
Population as of	2020
Population density sq mi	auto
Timezone	Hawaii-Aleutian (HST)
Utc offset	-10
Coordinates	21, 20, 10, N...
Postal code type	ZIP Codes
Postal code	96707
Area code	808
Blank name	FIPS code
Blank info	15-28250
Blank1 name	GNIS feature ID
Blank1 info	0360697

Kapolei. Located on the leeward coast of Oahu within Honolulu County, this master-planned community is designated as the "Second City" of Hawaii to alleviate urban pressure on Downtown Honolulu. Developed primarily by the Estate of James Campbell, its growth has been central to the state's economic diversification efforts, transforming former sugarcane fields into a major residential and commercial hub. The city's name references a volcanic cone in the area and is integral to the regional identity of ʻEwa.

History

The lands now comprising this area were historically part of the ahupuaʻa of Honouliuli, vital for its agricultural and fishing resources for Native Hawaiians. In the 19th century, the region became dominated by sugarcane plantations under the control of industrialist James Campbell. Following the decline of the plantation economy, the Estate of James Campbell began large-scale development in the late 1980s, envisioning a new urban center. Key milestones included the opening of the regional park and the establishment of major state offices, cementing its role as a government and business anchor for Leeward Oahu.

Geography

Situated on the arid ʻEwa Plains, the city is characterized by flat, former agricultural land bordered by the Waiʻanae Range to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south. Its climate is typically hot and dry, contrasting with the windward side of Oahu. Notable geographic features include the nearby Barber's Point (Kalaeloa) and the large recreational park which serves as a central green space. The area is part of the Honouliuli aquifer system, a critical water source managed by the Honolulu Board of Water Supply.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the community reported a population with a diverse ethnic makeup, including significant Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. The population has grown steadily since its founding, driven by new housing developments and its status as an employment center. Demographic trends show a relatively young population, with many residents working in nearby commercial centers, military installations like Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam, and the expanding University of Hawaii campus.

Economy

The economy is anchored by state government offices, including the state judiciary and Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Major commercial developments include the Ka Makana Aliʻi shopping center and the business park. The city is also a key site for renewable energy projects, with solar farms developed by Hawaiian Electric Industries. The adjacent Kalaeloa area supports industrial and aviation activities, while the resort area to the west contributes significantly to tourism in Hawaii.

Government and infrastructure

Municipal services are provided by the City and County of Honolulu, with the Honolulu City Council representing the district. Critical infrastructure includes the H-1 freeway, which connects the area to Honolulu and Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Public transportation is operated by TheBus, with future expansion of the Honolulu Rail Transit project planned. Emergency services are coordinated through the Honolulu Police Department and the Honolulu Fire Department, with major medical care provided by the Kapolei Medical Center.

Education

Public schools are part of the Hawaii State Department of Education, with campuses including Kapolei High School and Kapolei Middle School. Higher education is served by the University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu, whose campus is a major intellectual and cultural hub. The Leeward Community College also maintains a satellite facility, offering vocational and associate degree programs. Several charter schools, such as those focused on Hawaiian language immersion, operate within the community.

Notable people

Notable individuals associated with the area include professional golfer Michelle Wie West, who attended local schools. Politician and former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard has connections to the district. Musician and Na Hoku Hanohano Award winner John Cruz hails from the region. Sports figures like National Football League player Marcus Mariota have trained and participated in community events here, contributing to its local culture and identity.

Category:Cities in Hawaii Category:Honolulu County, Hawaii Category:Populated places on Oahu