Former Hilo hospital set to transform into a resource hub beginning this fall

Developers can now bid for the first phase of renovations at the old Hilo Memorial Hospital.

The County of Hawaiʻi Office of Housing and Community Development has issued the invitation to bid as it prepares for the long-term plan to establish a coordinated resource hub at the former hospital, located at 34 Rainbow Drive.

The hub will focus on housing stabilization, workforce readiness, behavioral health, and other wraparound services, according to the County of Hawaiʻi Office of Housing and Community Development.

“These renovations mark an important step toward transforming the old Hilo Memorial Hospital into a hub of housing and support services,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “With a focus on transitioning individuals to permanent housing, we are building pathways to long-term stability for some of our most vulnerable residents.”

Among the work to be completed during the first phase of renovations are:

• Re-roofing the main structure;
• Safe removal of hazardous materials;
• Selective removal of invasive trees to prevent future damage to the building foundation.

Future phases will include selective upgrades to electrical and mechanical systems (including fire sprinklers, alarms, elevators, and Americans with Disabilities Act compliance), interior improvements such as new flooring and windows, and repairs to exterior finishes and painting.

“This project represents a critical investment in the future of housing and homeless services in East Hawaiʻi,” said County Housing Administrator Kehaulani Costa. “By restoring this historic site, we’re envisioning a place where community members experiencing homelessness can access the support they need to move toward permanent housing and stability.”

“This first phase is just the beginning of a long-term vision to strengthen our island’s response to homelessness and housing instability,” she continued.

The hospital sits on about 25 acres owned by the state and managed by the county through executive order. The site is currently home to the Keolahou emergency shelter with 44 beds and the Hale Kūlike permanent supportive housing program with 17 beds, both operated by HOPE Services Hawaiʻi Inc.

Bids are due by 2 p.m. Sept. 25 through the Public Purchase System. Construction is expected to begin this fall, with completion of the first phase anticipated in about six months. The first phase is supported by $16.6 million in federal grants secured by U.S. Sens. Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono.

A Finding of No Significant Impact was issued in April 2024 as part of the project’s environmental assessment. In July, the Office of Housing and Community Development selected SSFM International as the construction project manager to oversee the renovations.

The work is not expected to require the relocation of those currently residing in the shelter and permanent supportive housing program, according to the Office of Housing and Community Development.

The full invitation for bid and application instructions can be found on the Public Purchase System. Additional information on the project can also be found on the Office of Housing and Community Development website.