STEERING TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE: THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF ROBERTS HAWAII PREVIEWS THE SKYLINE
June 30, 2023, will mark the commencement of a transformative era in transportation for Honolulu, with the launch of the highly anticipated Skyline, also known as the Rail. A few days prior to this historic event, an exclusive experience was granted to the Executive Committee of Roberts Hawaii, who had the privilege of previewing the Skyline on June 27, following an invitation from Jon Nouchi, Deputy Director of the Dept. of Transportation Services.
Spanning over a decade in planning and execution, the Skyline project is a significant stride towards an efficient, eco-friendly future for Honolulu. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) announced that HART has completed construction and delivered the initial operating segment of the Honolulu Rail Project to the City and County of Honolulu Department of Transportation Services (DTS). This initial segment comprises a 10.75-mile rail guideway and nine stations stretching from East Kapolei to Aloha Stadium. “This is a landmark moment for the HART ohana,” proclaimed Lori Kahikina, P.E., HART Executive Director and CEO. “All required operational and safety testing and related certifications have been completed, and the system is safe and reliable. This is a huge milestone in delivering a functional rail system to the people of the City and County of Honolulu”.
The Executive Committee of Roberts Hawaii was among the first to experience the new era of transport in Honolulu, riding the Skyline three days before its official launch. This unique opportunity allowed the committee to witness firsthand the result of years of meticulous planning, rigorous testing, and unwavering dedication.
In addition to the rail guideway and nine stations, HART also transferred 12 four-car trains and the 43-acre Rail Operations Center and Maintenance and Storage Facility to the DTS, which will oversee the operation and maintenance of these assets.
The inaugural run of the Skyline for the public will occur at 2 p.m. on June 30. In celebration, a fare-free weekend will be offered from 2 p.m. on June 30 until the last train running on the Fourth of July. TheBus will also waive fares for all riders between July 1 and 4.
Starting July 1, passengers will need to have a valid HOLO card to avail the free fare service. Despite fares not being deducted from these cards, riders are required to tap their HOLO cards at fare gates to enter individual stations.
The Skyline offers more than just a new mode of transportation. It is a grand platform for celebrating local culture, tradition, and the spirit of Hawaii. A grand opening celebration will be held at the Halawa rail station prior to the official launch on June 30, inviting locals and visitors to be a part of this historical milestone.
Convenient park-and-ride facilities are available at the Halawa Station, the Keone‘ae Station at UH-West Oahu, and Honouliuli Station at Hoʻopili, facilitating smooth commutes for passengers. Adult HOLO cards can be easily obtained at local retailers, rail station ticket vending machines at the entrance of each rail station, or TheBus Pass Office.
The exclusive preview of the Skyline by the Roberts Hawaii Executive Committee not only offers a glimpse into the promising future of transportation in Honolulu but also stands as a testament to the city’s dedication to progress, symbolizing a giant leap towards a sustainable, efficient, and connected Hawaii. As we step into this new era of transit, the Skyline not only transforms our journey but also reshapes our city’s landscape, strengthening the bond between its people and their beloved home.
The Skyline is more than just a rail system – it’s an emblem of unity and progress, a beacon of innovation that reflects the spirit of our community. By creating an environmentally friendly, reliable, and efficient mode of transportation, it serves as a testament to Honolulu’s commitment to its citizens and the environment.
As Roberts Hawaii, a company that has been part of Hawaii’s transportation fabric for over 80 years, we are thrilled to have been one of the first to witness and be part of this transformative moment. We see this as an opportunity to further enhance the travel experience of our customers, providing them with seamless connectivity and a more efficient way to explore the beauty of Honolulu.
To the people of Honolulu and all who visit our vibrant city, we invite you to ride the Skyline – to embark on a journey that not only gets you to your destination but also connects you to the heart and soul of our community. This isn’t just a ride; it’s an experience – one that showcases the spirit of aloha, the beauty of our islands, and the vision of a sustainable future.
In conclusion, the launch of the Skyline marks a milestone in the history of Honolulu’s transport system. It represents a vision realized, a promise fulfilled, and a dream brought to life. As we move forward, we remain committed to embracing progress, advocating for sustainability, and delivering excellence in our services. Let us celebrate this remarkable achievement and look forward to a future of endless possibilities.
Roberts Hawaii extends its heartfelt gratitude to Jon Nouchi and the Department of Transportation Services for the opportunity to participate in this historic moment. As we continue our journey, we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences, and we eagerly anticipate the exciting new opportunities that the Skyline brings to our city, our people, and our beloved guests.
As we embrace this new era of transportation in Honolulu, we’re reminded of the Hawaiian proverb, ‘A’ohe hana nui ke alu ‘ia, which translates to “No task is too big when done together.” Indeed, the Skyline is a shining example of what we can achieve when we unite towards a common goal. It is not just a means to a destination, but a journey towards a brighter, more connected, and sustainable future.
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