Honolulu officials shouldn’t have exempted Kyo-ya Hotels & Resorts from a coastal height setback requirement, justices decide.

An amendment to make the city denser and more walkable around planned rail stations might also increase the number of sidewalk cafes.

The project is already getting pushback from neighbors, KITV reports.

UPDATED: The City Council chair has issued a statement saying the move is procedural and that ultimately Malaekahana will not be in the urban area, but supporters of more housing are still encouraged.

Justices hear oral arguments on a challenge to plans for a massive housing development that would displace prime agricultural land in southwest Oahu.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is working on an islandwide strategy to require all major developments to set aside a certain amount of affordable housing, a policy also known as inclusionary zoning.

The nature of key development projects on West Oahu may mean the area loses its unique rural appeal.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is still honing his strategy, and the City Council hasn’t exactly raced to support his proposals.

Oahu’s “Second City” doesn’t meet the generally accepted elements of “smart growth” and even city officials are putting more emphasis on development along the Honolulu rail line.

Honolulu once allowed 40-story buildings just about anywhere on the island. Without changes, we might have also had highways on the reef and artificial island parks.