Honolulu Skyline Rail System: Project Profile

The Honolulu Skyline is an automated, elevated rail transit system designed to provide high-capacity public transportation along Oahu’s heavily congested southern corridor. This project profile details the technical specifications and strategic objectives of this critical infrastructure, which aims to integrate with existing transit networks to improve mobility and foster sustainable urban development. The system is being implemented in phases, with initial segments now operational and further extensions under construction.

Technical Specifications

The Skyline system is a fully automated, driverless (GoA4) fixed-guideway urban rail line. The full 30.4 km route extends from East Kapolei to the Ala Moana Transit Center, primarily on an elevated guideway to navigate Honolulu’s complex topography. The project is managed by the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) for design and construction, with the Honolulu Department of Transportation Services (DTS) handling operations and maintenance for completed sections. A key design objective is seamless integration with Honolulu’s existing public transport, including TheBus, Handi-Van services, and a direct connection to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.

The rolling stock consists of 20 four-car trainsets manufactured by Hitachi Rail. Each air-conditioned train has a capacity of 800 passengers and features Wi-Fi, CCTV, and dedicated storage for bicycles, surfboards, and luggage, reflecting the local lifestyle. Stations are ADA-compliant and equipped with modern amenities including elevators, escalators, and HOLO card vending kiosks, ensuring full accessibility and user convenience.

Key Takeaways

• Congestion Alleviation: The primary driver for the project is to mitigate Honolulu’s severe traffic congestion, with projections indicating a potential reduction of 40,000 daily vehicle trips upon full system completion.
• Integrated Transit Network: Skyline is designed as the backbone of a comprehensive public transit system, with purpose-built transit centers and transfer points to connect with bus and paratransit services, maximizing network reach and efficiency.
• Sustainable Urban Development: As a fully electric system, Skyline promotes a significant shift towards sustainable transportation, reducing carbon emissions and providing a framework for transit-oriented development (TOD) along its corridor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the full Honolulu Skyline rail system be open?

The system is opening in phases. The first phase from East Kapolei to Aloha Stadium opened in June 2023. Phase two, extending to the Middle Street-Kalihi Transit Centre, is targeted for completion in mid-2025. The final phases extending to the Ala Moana Center are under construction, but a definitive completion date is pending further planning and funding confirmation.

Who is building the Honolulu Skyline?

The project is overseen by the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART), a semi-autonomous public authority. Major contracts were awarded to global infrastructure leaders, including Hitachi Rail for the trains and core electrical and mechanical systems, and a joint venture of Granite Construction, Shimmick Construction, and Traylor Bros. for significant portions of the elevated guideway and stations.