About 40 citizens held a rally to publicize concerns over a plan by General Growth Properties to redevelop its Kaka'ako land around Ward Centers with as many as 20 high rises over 20 years.

The group, led by Kaka'ako business owner Jim Frierson of Island Pool and Spa, said they are concerned about traffic congestion and the displacement of small business will harm the community.

"We're here because we're concerned about the future of Kaka'ako," Frierson said.

The rally at Sheridan Community Park was held prior to a public hearing last night on General Growth's plan. The hearing was scheduled by the Hawaii Community Development Authority, the state agency overseeing redevelopment in Kaka'ako.