The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) has launched construction of the City Center Guideway and Stations (CCGS) segment of the Skyline rail project, holding a blessing and groundbreaking ceremony at the future site of Ka‘ākaukukui (Civic Center) Station in Kaka‘ako.
The event was attended by Mayor Rick Blangiardi, members of his administration, HART leadership, city councillors, state legislators, and representatives of contractor Tutor Perini Corporation. A traditional Hawaiian blessing was conducted by Kahu Kordell Kekoa.
Mayor Blangiardi described the milestone as pivotal for the island’s future:
“Today marks a major milestone in our journey toward a better connected and accessible Oʻahu. Breaking ground on the third segment of Skyline is not just about building the infrastructure to bring the rail system into the Downtown area, it’s about laying the foundation for the future of this island and developing sustainable transportation alternatives to serve neighbouring communities.”
The CCGS phase will extend the Skyline rail line into central Honolulu, adding six new stations and around three miles of elevated guideway. The segment begins at the Kahauiki (Middle Street Transit Center) Station and will terminate at Ka‘ākaukukui (Civic Center) Station, located near Halekauwila Street and South Street.
Building on momentum
HART Executive Director and CEO Lori Kahikina expressed optimism about the next stage of work:
“Mahalo to all of our partners and HART staff who have worked so hard to make this project possible. We’ve got to this point through cooperation and perseverance, and we will use that same approach to overcome the challenges that lay ahead to deliver this project within budget and on schedule, for the taxpayers of Honolulu. I couldn’t be more excited to put shovel to ground on this next phase of the Honolulu rail project, a critical step toward bringing Skyline further into urban Honolulu.”
Construction of the CCGS is scheduled for completion by 2030.
Initial works and road closures
The first stage involves drilling shafts for the guideway support columns, beginning in the Iwilei area. Work will take place Monday to Friday, and on Saturdays where required, between 6:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
To ensure public safety, road closures will occur at various points along the route, including Kalihi, Iwilei, Downtown, Chinatown and Kakaʻako.
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