Since 1961
About Royal Contracting
Founded in Honolulu in 1961. Royal Contracting self-performs grading, roadway, utility, and environmental work across Hawaiʻi's major islands.
Company history
Milestones
1961
Royal Contracting is founded
Edwin Hulihee started the company in Honolulu with six employees doing subcontract work.
1971
Second generation joins
After earning his civil engineering degree, David Hulihee joined the family business.
1981
David Hulihee becomes president
David Hulihee was named president and led the company's growth in civil construction.
1990
Castle & Cooke partnership begins
Royal Contracting began site development work for Castle & Cooke residential communities in Central Oʻahu.
2003
Founder receives ʻŌʻō Award
The Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce honored Edwin Hulihee for business leadership and community service.
2010
Emergency repair earns awards
The Alakahi Stream Intake restoration earned honors from the GCA of Hawaii and American Public Works Association.
2022
Puʻuhonua O Waiʻanae infrastructure
Royal Contracting performed infrastructure work for the Puʻuhonua O Waiʻanae Farm Village.
Leadership history
Edwin and Dave Hulihee
Founder and second-generation leader
Edwin Hulihee founded Royal Contracting in 1961 with six employees. His son, civil engineer David Craig Hulihee, later served as president and chairman. David was named the General Contractors Association of Hawaii's 2018 Contractor of the Year.
Today, president Leonard Leong leads the company's 140 employees.
Operating priorities
Values
Safety
Safety practices take priority over schedule on every job.
Craft
Work is performed to grade tolerance, compaction, and drainage specifications.
Accountability
Crews are responsible for contract scope and schedule.
Community
Royal Contracting is based in Hawaiʻi and operates across the major islands.