KAIMUKI, Hawaii (KHON2) -- The first signs of renovation at Queen Theater in Kaimuki are starting to show.
The building was built in 1936, its doors were last opened to the public almost 40 years ago and community members said they are hopeful for its future for the first time in decades.
Two sides of one of Kaimuki's historical landmarks have a fresh coat of paint, which the director of Envision Kaimuki said is a bit of a fresher look than its previous color and is the start of the owners' three-phase plan.
"Well, Phase I entails the outside. So, apparently she's true to her word and it's, something is being done! Amazing," Lori Yamada said.
Other exterior improvements include refurbishing the sign and Marquee, though some business owners born after 1985 add that they would like to see more than a facelift.
"I really feel like we all want more than just a fresh coat of paint. We would love to see the building activated," said Jordan Lee, Public Pet owner and Keep it Kaimuki founder. "It's just more activation. You know, I think a lot of the hub of the Kaimuki business district is up there, if a nonprofit picked it up or some kind of foundation picked it up, that would be ideal, I think, for the community to have some kind of cultural hub."
Phase I of the renovation is expected to take at least until the end of April 2025. The owner of the property testified to the City Council that Phase II -- renovating the lobby and second floor -- could be completed by 2026.
"I want to emphasize that these plans are flexible," said Queen Theater property owner Adoree Yu. "I understand the importance of the queen to the community and I am fully committed to revitalizing the theater and creating a space the community deserves and can enjoy once again."
A resolution introduced in the City Council earlier in November urged the City to take over the property due to its derelict state. A City spokesman confirmed on Saturday, Nov. 23 that they have not initiated any eminent domain proceedings.
Stolen jewels, boa constrictors killing owners, check out Weird News here
"Just hopeful, I really am," Lee said. "It would break everyone's heart if it fell through again."
"I'm hopeful and happy! Yeah, it's like cool, you know. Work is getting done," Yamada said.
Click here for more information on the renovations.