Updated at 5:10 p.m., Friday, October 6, 2006
Fence opened between Kailua Safeway, Don Quijote
Advertiser Staff
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Officials from Don Quijote agreed to open a section of the fence as part of its recent acquisition of the store from Daiei (USA) Inc. Daiei for years had refused to remove the fence that separated the adjacent stores at 200 Hamakua Drive and 345 Hahani Street.
A ceremony was held today to mark the occasion.
"We believe our customers will appreciate being able to walk from our store to other shops along this block," said Don Quijote spokesman Koji Suganuma. "We hope this change will benefit not only our customers, but the community as a whole."
Kaneohe Ranch, which manages the property on which the stores are built, commended officials from both Don Quijote and Safeway for reaching the agreement.
"Local residents have been clear that they want a pedestrian-friendly environment that allows Kailua to retain its small-town atmosphere," said Mitch D'Olier, Kaneohe Ranch president and chief executive officer. "Removing the fence and making it a lot easier for people to enjoy shopping at both locations fits the community's vision for the area. This simply couldn't have happened without the cooperation of both Don Quijote and Safeway."
