With 8843 lots and approximately 4000 homes, it’s no wonder that many of us view Hawaiian Paradise Park as the second city of East Hawaii. Recently recognized as the fastest growing subdivision in the State it speaks well that years ago the association adopted their own general plan in order to insure that future growth would not happen haphazardly. It seems to have become the address of choice for many mainland transplants yet some local home-buyers still resist the idea of moving to the country even though a comparably sized home in town sells for substantially less in HPP. Truth is, the HPP home will actually be on a larger lot, be much newer and have numerous upgrades. I recall feeling a definite disconnect between what I saw and comments I’d heard from many local folks when I first visited the Park. I was impressed by a breathtakingly beautiful coastline outlined by a bay popular with fishermen and whale watchers alike. I found huge canopies created by mango groves and bamboo orchids blanketing the landscape as far as I could see. HPP is quickly evolving into an established community where neighbors have pulled together to become a tight knit community. Consisting of mostly one acre lots with 4 main arteries connecting the highway to the ocean, residents each year make fewer and fewer compromises. While cable television is inching makai of 21st Ave, most areas now have power, phone and even DSL. As the paving of the137 miles of roads gradually occurs, thing seem more groomed but it’s still “country” and unequalled peace and quiet are what attracts people to the area. While most homes are still on catchment, some have installed their own wells and strides such as UV filtration have made catchment virtually a non-issue. There are no covenants, conditions and restrictions which means that in this agricultural subdivision, it’s possible to have not only animals but crops as well. Besides agricultural pursuits, there’s a full time veterinarian, a couple of premier plant nurseries, a full time fire station and a variety of home businesses which have found a place to flourish. Interestingly, area residents who pre-dated the first occupants considered the lands marginally productive. I think most who live in the Park would definitely disagree. The mild climate allows most everything to grow and thrive. With an outstanding association and active community policing, the association pavilion is a buzy hub where residents gather to participate in structured recreational activities or the active senior program. I spend a lot of time in Hawaiian Paradise Park. Most people feel it’s a great place to live. But you don’t need to take my word for it. If you’ve never been there or if you haven’t been there in awhile, trust me, you’ll be proud to see how this little slice of our Hawaii is growing. See ya then!