Honolulu’s Chinatown is bustling with activity as the midday sun shines bright, making it a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike.
On Thursday, Aloha State Daily met with Eddie Flores, Jr., the co-founder of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue and the chairman of A Better Chinatown Association, who shared his enthusiasm about upcoming developments in the area.
Flores, who has deep roots in this historic neighborhood, revealed that a plan for a new archway at Kekaulike Mall is finally taking shape, a project that has been five years in the making.
Former Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell approached Flores, highlighting the absence of an arch in one of America’s oldest Chinatowns and suggesting that the community build one to symbolize unity and heritage.
“If you go to every Chinatown in America, you will see a big arch,” Flores noted, emphasizing the importance of this cultural symbol.
To kickstart the endeavor, Flores established A Better Chinatown Association, a nonprofit dedicated to fundraising for the arch and related projects.
While he has secured some assistance from his office staff, Flores is primarily leading the project solo, demonstrating his commitment to revitalizing the area.
According to Flores, the first phase of the revitalization will involve erecting the traditional arch at the intersection of King and Kekaulike streets.
This phase will also include the installation of lanterns, banners, murals, and other aesthetic enhancements, with an expected completion date set for June 2026.
Flores explained that the location of the arch is strategic, as it is in close proximity to the soon-to-be-constructed Skyline rail Chinatown station, known as Hōlau, on Nimitz Highway and Kekaulike Street.
He believes this will not only attract tourists but also encourage the local community to engage with the area more.
“It will become a destination, not only for the tourists but for the local community,” Flores told Aloha State Daily.
His vision extends beyond the arch, with a second phase planned that focuses on launching free daily walking and food tours, cultural events, and craft fairs.
The plan also includes the creation of a website and social media platforms to promote Chinatown as a prime destination for visitors and residents alike, with the second phase anticipated to be completed by December 2026.
Flores expressed confidence in his ability to deliver on these promises, stating, “People know Eddie. If I do something, it’s going to be done. When I said I will do it, I will do it.”
His reputation as a dedicated community leader underpins his ambition to transform Chinatown into an inviting and engaging venue for everyone.
The revitalization effort is projected to cost around $1.15 million, which encompasses design and engineering, materials and fabrication, shipping, site preparation, and civil works for the arch, as well as the installation of banners, lanterns, and murals.
Flores is currently in the process of fabricating the arch and expects to place the order within the next month.
While Kekaulike Mall is city-owned property, the funding for this project will come from private sources, with several donors already contributing.
Flores expressed gratitude to Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi for his support, stating the importance of this initiative not only as a way to enhance Chinatown’s aesthetics but also as an investment in the community’s legacy.
“This is an investment in legacy and investment for all those who live and work and visit Chinatown, and an investment toward the future of this place and all who will experience Chinatown,” Mayor Blangiardi stated.
For more information on the revitalization project or to support the cause, interested individuals can mail donations to A Better Chinatown Association or contact Flores via email.
Those eager to learn more about the historic district can also visit honoluluchinatown.org.
image source from：alohastatedaily
