The University of Hawaii (UH) has announced a significant development in its plans to enhance the creative and film production landscape in West Oahu. They have selected Island Film Group, a partnership renowned for its diverse experience in film studio commercial development and operations, as the private developer to design, build, finance, and operate a film and television production studio adjacent to the UH West Oahu campus in Kapolei. The project, estimated to exceed $100 million in value, is poised to transform a 34-acre undeveloped site into a multipurpose entertainment campus. This campus is envisioned to include a public-serving town square with amenities such as live-work spaces, retail, dining, lodging, and office space, alongside a private, secured film studio featuring modern soundstages and other support facilities.
The selection of Island Film Group follows a comprehensive process that concluded in January after an October deadline for submissions. The chosen site is strategically located next to the Skyline rail station, bordered by Farrington Highway, Kualakai Parkway, the UH West Oahu campus, and the Hawaii Tokai International College campus. The initiative underscores UH’s commitment to fostering the growth of high-quality film production in Hawaii, addressing the longstanding need for top-tier film studios in the region. This development is expected to create a plethora of employment opportunities, particularly in high-quality, unionized labor roles associated with film productions.
This project is not just a boost for the local economy and job market but also serves as a catalyst for educational advancement. The proximity of the new film studio to the $37 million Academy for Creative Media Student Production Center, which opened in 2022 at UH West Oahu, facilitates a seamless integration of academic and practical learning experiences. Students will have access to internships, on-the-job training, and direct hands-on experience, enriching their education and career readiness in the creative media industry.
Island Film Group, alongside partners such as SHM Partners, Hawaii Media Inc., and CR50 Production Ventures, was selected for their comprehensive proposal, which met the university’s vision and requirements. The project’s funding is expected to be sourced entirely from private equity and funds, emphasizing the project’s financial independence from taxpayer dollars. The initial investment for the first phase of the project is anticipated to be around $125 million, covering the entire 34-acre site. The development is seen as a potential billion-dollar industry for the state, significantly contributing to Hawaii’s economy beyond the current $400 million annual revenue from film and TV productions shot in the state.
The University of Hawaii’s initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote Oahu as a hub for film studio development, supported by city measures like Bill 59, which aims to provide real property tax incentives for eligible film studio facilities. This development marks a monumental step towards realizing the vision of transforming Hawaii into a major production hub, leveraging its unique cultural stories and breathtaking landscapes.
For more detailed information on this exciting development, visit the original articles on the Honolulu Star-Advertiser and Hawaii News Network.