HONOLULU (KHON2) -- After more than 20 years, a long-vacant building sitting on Ala Wai Blvd. will begin its redevelopment process into affordable housing starting in February. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news The City and County of Honolulu acquired the property in Jan 2024 through condemnation and announced its plans to transform it into "much-needed affordable housing." Officials said the property is known for bringing in complaints of overgrowth, litter, graffiti, structural deterioration and more over the years. Abandoned Ala Wai building to be turned into ‘much needed’ affordable housing This reputation will be put to an end in mid-February when contractor R.H.S. Lee, Inc. will safely demolish the structure. The process will begin with predatory assessments in mid-January and is set to be completed by the end of March. R.H.S. Lee, Inc. will take the following measures to minimize disruption to the neighborhood: Install dust screens to mitigate dust and debris Implement traffic management plans Utilize the parking lot behind the building for heavy machinery "The redevelopment of this property - which is a long-standing eyesore, nuisance and threat to public safety - represents a crucial turning point. It signals that we, along with business and community leaders across the state, must take strong and decisive action on housing to benefit everyone in our community," said Honolulu City Council Chair Tommy Waters. Check out more news from around Hawaii The City said they will provide regular updates to the Neighborhood Board and other stakeholders to ensure the community remains informed of progress.