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The Honolulu rail has long been a continuous issue on Oahu, Hawaii, with supporters and opponents arguing over costs, benefits, and potential environmental and community impacts. This article talks about the planned 20-mile rail line, designed to ease traffic and improve access for residents and tourists, has faced many setbacks and controversy since its launch more than a decade ago. The project continues to face challenges and delays, and remains a highly challenging topic in Hawaii’s political and social landscape. We also get to hear from Damien teachers Mr. Higa and Mr. McCorriston on their views and how the rail has affected them.
Damien Memorial’s 12 grade English teacher, Mr. Higa, shares his opinions on the rail in an interview. When asked what his thoughts are on the currently built project, he states, “Obviously over scheduled and over budget”. Although he lives in Mililani, he is affected by traffic on the H1 from construction work. Not only looking at costs, Mr. Higa also takes into consideration our environment, saying, “This island in terms of size and geography it was never meant to house or hold this many people”.
Mr. McCorriston, a 12th grade social studies teacher, brings his liveliness to the interview with his thoughts on the rail. I first thought of Mr. McCorriston to interview, as he has shared with students that he lives in town. When asked how the project has affected him with traffic, he replies, “No.” “Looks like they ran out of money to even make it come into town”. As we see, most of the construction has been on the West side of the island. Many locals share how they don’t see themselves using the rail often. But like others Mr.McCorriston shares, “I would want to take my son on the rail for at least one ride… would be a novelty thing”, which I agree with. Lastly, with this project being behind schedule, I wanted to see how long others would predict it to finish, with McCorriston saying 7 more years.
Supporters of the Honolulu Rail argue that the project will greatly benefit the people of Hawaii by easing traffic congestion and improving transportation. The rail line is expected to carry an estimated 116,000 passengers per day, according to the Honolulu Rail Transit Authority (HART), which will help ease traffic on the city’s congested highways. The rail will also connect main destinations such as Honolulu, making travel within the city easier and more convenient for residents and visitors.
In addition, the rail is expected to create thousands of construction, engineering, and transportation jobs and provide a much-needed boost to the local economy. Hart estimates the project will bring about $9 billion in economic benefits in the next 20 years, including increased tax revenue, job creation, and improved access to local businesses. The rail claims that it is a car replacement and can help reduce the number of cars on the road, reduce transport-related exhaust, and improve air quality.
Opponents of the Honolulu Rail say the project is too expensive, poorly planned, and harmful to the environment and communities. Critics say the estimated cost of the project has increased from an initial $5.3 billion to more than $12 billion, making it one of the most expensive public works projects in Hawaii’s history. According to the data, the average cost of 29 new transit systems installed in the last 14 years was 98% of their initial budget. Opponents point out research, suggesting that the rail may not significantly reduce travel times or traffic, citing that the project is poorly planned and doesn’t effectively relieve congestion.
Critics also argue that the rail project will have a negative impact on the environment and local communities. The project faces numerous legal challenges from environmental and community groups, who claim the rail damages delicate ecosystems and cultural heritage and disrupts local communities. The rail will require the investment of thousands of homes and businesses along the line, causing displacement and confusion among residents and businesses. Opponents further argue that the financial burden of the project will be disproportionately placed on the shoulders of Hawaii taxpayers. The estimated cost of the project management was approximately $9.2 billion, with the claims of mismanagement and corruption, raises questions about the project’s activity and legitimacy.
In conclusion, the Honolulu rail project represents an enormous opportunity for the city’s transportation system to be improved. The rail system has the ability to improve mobility and connection for residents and visitors alike by providing an alternate mode of transportation and relieving traffic congestion. While cost and planning concerns have been mentioned, thorough evaluation of alternatives and integration with current transportation networks can address these issues. The Honolulu rail project has the potential to change the city’s transportation scene by offering a sustainable and efficient means of transit that can benefit the economy, environment, and overall quality of life. Continuous evaluation, stakeholder participation, and adaptive planning are critical for project success and the maximization of long-term benefits for the rail. Would you call yourself a supporter or opponent for the Honolulu Rail system?
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