The developer of a planned regional mall in East Kapolei has named the project Ka Makana Ali'i, literally "royal gift," in recognition of the project site linked to Hawaiian royalty and leased from the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands.

Florida-based DeBartolo Development was selected by the Hawaiian Home Lands agency last year to build a regional mall on 67 acres near the planned University of Hawai'i-West O'ahu campus.

The project is envisioned for 1.1 million square feet of mixed-use space, including about 160,000 square feet of offices and a multi-plex movie theater, as well as two hotels with a combined total 300 rooms.

Erin Nellis, a DeBartolo development manager, in a statement said the firm's research showed the project site was once deeded to Chiefess Kekauonohi, who was associated with the courts of kings Kamehameha I, Kamehameha II and Kamehameha III.

Micah Kane, Hawaiian Homes Commission chairman, in a statement said the project's name is appropriate.

"In Hawaiian culture, the ali'i had the responsibility to manage the land and its resources for the benefit of the entire community," he said. "(The project) will create a unique lifestyle for the residents of the area, and at the same time, provide revenue to help DHHL accomplish its mission of serving the Hawaiian community."

Lease revenue will help the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands develop affordable housing for Hawaiians. The retail project is projected to open in late 2009.