Protecting Thomas Square and the Honolulu Museum of Art

(a) King Kamehameha III at Thomas Square and the Honolulu Museum of Art are designated for preservation on the State and National Register of Historic Places. King Kamehameha III at Thomas Square is an urban park with a formal symmetrical design. It has historic significance as the site where the sovereignty of the Hawaiian kingdom was restored to King Kamehameha III by Great Britain. It is a focal point for the Honolulu Museum of Art, the Neal S. Blaisdell Center, and Linekona School and has been increasingly used for recreation and special activities. The Honolulu Museum of Art has architectural significance as an example of nationally renowned architect Bertram Goodhue’s work, and cultural significance as a major art gallery and museum. (b) Without special controls, high-rise buildings in the immediate vicinity will have a negative impact on the serenity of these two landmarks. In view of this threat and established public policies to protect important resources, it is necessary to preserve and protect King Kamehameha III at Thomas Square and the Honolulu Museum of Art.