Munekiyo & Hiraga, Inc. Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Munekiyo & Hiraga, Inc. is a full-service urban planning and project management consulting firm based in Hawaii, with offices in Wailuku, Maui, and Honolulu, Oahu. Established in 1989 by Michael Munekiyo, the firm specializes in land use planning, environmental review, construction permitting, and strategic advisory services. Over the years, it has expanded its client base to include government agencies, landowners, small businesses, architects, engineers, and non-profit organizations across the state.

Mission and Vision

The firm's mission is to provide responsive professional services of the highest quality, emphasizing excellence in process management. Guided by the principles of ALOHA—Akahai (Kindness), Lōkahi (Unity), ‘Olu‘olu (Gentleness), Ha‘a Ha‘a (Humility), and Ahonui (Patience)—Munekiyo & Hiraga aims to build trust through responsible actions and respect for diverse perspectives.

Primary Area of Focus

Munekiyo & Hiraga focuses on urban planning and project management, offering services such as land use planning, environmental review, construction permitting, and strategic advisory services. The firm is recognized for its expertise in environmental and regulatory processes, technical analysis, and governmental and community affairs.

Industry Significance

With over 35 years of experience, Munekiyo & Hiraga has successfully completed more than 2,000 assignments, establishing itself as a leader in environmental and regulatory processes, technical analysis, and governmental and community affairs in Hawaii.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

The firm's core objectives include delivering timely, proactive, strategic, and high-quality services to clients, ensuring that projects are completed efficiently and effectively.

Specific Areas of Specialization

• Land Use Planning: Developing comprehensive plans that guide the use of land resources in a sustainable and efficient manner.

• Environmental Review: Conducting assessments to evaluate the environmental impacts of proposed projects.

• Construction Permitting: Navigating the permitting process to ensure compliance with local regulations.

• Strategic Advisory Services: Providing guidance on project development, community engagement, and governmental affairs.

Key Technologies Utilized

The firm employs geographic information systems (GIS) for spatial analysis and mapping, enhancing the precision and effectiveness of its planning and project management services.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Munekiyo & Hiraga primarily serves clients in Hawaii, including government agencies, landowners, small businesses, architects, engineers, and non-profit organizations. The firm focuses on projects that require comprehensive planning, environmental assessments, and community engagement.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a privately held company, Munekiyo & Hiraga has not publicly disclosed detailed financial information or funding history.

Total Funds Raised

Specific details regarding total funds raised are not publicly available.

Notable Investors

Information about notable investors is not publicly disclosed.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The firm has not publicly disclosed specific plans for the utilization of capital.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Munekiyo & Hiraga's portfolio includes a diverse range of projects, such as:

• Four Seasons Resort at Manele Bay Improvements: A major renovation project to refresh and renovate the property.

• Kaanapali Ocean Resort: A 390-unit timeshare project located in the heart of Ka’anapali, North Beach, on Maui.

• Lahaina Pier Improvements: Construction of a new inter-island ferry pier and related landward improvements at the Lahaina Small Boat Harbor in Maui.

• Makena H-M Redevelopment: Transformation of the existing Makena Beach & Golf Resort into a new residential community.

• Whalers Village Revitalization: A $24 million project to renovate and expand the Whalers Village Shopping Center.

• Wailuku Campus Space Study: Preparation of a master plan for the County of Maui to facilitate dialogue and planning for County offices and related facilities.

Stages of Clinical Trials or Product Development

As a consulting firm specializing in urban planning and project management, Munekiyo & Hiraga does not engage in clinical trials or product development.

Target Conditions

The firm's projects address various urban development and planning needs, including resort renovations, infrastructure improvements, and community space studies.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

Specific timelines for project milestones are not publicly disclosed.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Munekiyo & Hiraga utilizes geographic information systems (GIS) for spatial analysis and mapping, enhancing the precision and effectiveness of its planning and project management services.

Significant Scientific Methods

The firm employs GIS technology to conduct spatial analysis and mapping, facilitating informed decision-making in urban planning and project management.

Leadership Team

Key Executive Profiles

• Karlynn K. Fukuda: President. A graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder with degrees in Communications and Journalism, Karlynn has been with Munekiyo & Hiraga since 2004.

• Mark Alexander Roy: Vice President. Originally from the United Kingdom, Mark joined the firm in 2004, bringing extensive experience in urban planning and project management.

• Tessa Munekiyo Ng: Vice President. Born and raised on Maui, Tessa returned to Hawaii after spending 10 years on the mainland to join Munekiyo & Hiraga in Honolulu.

• Gwendolyn Cheney Rivera: Manager. Gwen holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Ohio State University and has been with the firm since 2010.

• Yukino Uchiyama: Manager. A native of Japan, Yukino earned her Bachelor's degree in Anthropology from Waseda University and has been with the firm since 2012.

• Emily Murai: Associate. Emily graduated from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa with a B.A. in American Studies and joined the firm in 2015.

• Adam Strubeck: Associate. Adam has a background in urban planning and has been with Munekiyo & Hiraga since 2016.

• Korwyn Roberts, AICP: Senior Associate. Korwyn holds a Master's in City and Regional Planning from The Ohio State University and has been with the firm since 2017.

• Lexi Brinker: Analyst. Lexi graduated from the University of San Diego with a double major in Environmental Studies and Anthropology and joined the firm in 2018.

• Eric Pachowicz: Associate. Eric holds a Bachelor's degree in Civic Communication and Media from Willamette University and has been with the firm since 2019.

Leadership Changes

Specific details regarding recent leadership changes or appointments are not publicly disclosed.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The urban planning and project management consulting market in Hawaii is characterized by a diverse range of projects, including resort developments, infrastructure improvements, and community planning initiatives. The market is influenced by regulatory processes, environmental considerations, and community engagement requirements.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the Hawaii urban planning and project management consulting market include:

• Planning Consultants Hawaii LLC (PCH): Specializes in master planning, development permitting, environmental assessments, community planning, and public policy.

• Otomo Engineering Inc.: Offers a range of engineering services tailored to meet the needs of both residential and commercial clients.

• CHP MAUI: Specializes in land use planning, landscape architecture, and long-range planning, focusing on enhancing the natural beauty and functionality of the environment.