School by day, Hooters by night

Don’t bother reminding the Aloha Tower Development Corp. that things don’t always turn out as planned. The agency, established more than 30 years ago to oversee the redevelopment of the land around the iconic tower, know that all too well. The vibrant commercial center planned for the Aloha Tower Marketplace site never really materialized.

So the recent overture from Hawaii Pacific University to become a major tenant for the marketplace’s second level is a hopeful if unconventional prospect.

HPU is in talks with the marketplace owner about leasing the upper level and converting the space to student lofts. It could be a win-win for the school, which always has been in the market to house its students, and for the marketplace, which could use some livening up. That’s especially so for tenants like Gordon Biersch and Hooters, still anchoring the downstairs. It’s good, as long as the kids get to class a few blocks up.

Ford Island: Fun for the kids

Perhaps a more inspirational name is in order for the planned Marine Science and Storage Facility. Judging by the description from the feds, who are underwriting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration project, it sounds like it could be an actual attraction to Ford Island.

In addition to consolidating the scattered 12 offices of NOAA in one spot, educational opportunities will include school partnerships enabling kids to learn about marine life and joint projects to promote ocean education for tourists as well. It’s also meant to meet "green" energy standards, using a salt-water artesian well to skim the heat off the building and the research tanks. All in all, a very cool idea.