After being delayed over a year due a lawsuit that halted the project, construction is finally resuming for the $5.26 billion Honolulu Rail Project. Large columns are being put into place in the Ewa fields, giving the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation's chief executive Dan Grabauskas reason to smile. Grabauskas stated, "To me that's the most beautiful sound in the world, the sound of that equipment starting up." According to HART, the year long delay cost taxpayers between $30 million and $35 million.
Last year, the Honolulu Supreme Court halted all construction by the city until an archaeological survey was completed for the entire 20-mile route. A few weeks ago, the State Historic Preservation Division signed off on the completed archaeological plans. The Honolulu City Council then approved several permits that allowed construction to resume. Opponents of the rail project are quick to point out that there is still a pending federal litigation, and if the federal appeals court sides with those who oppose the rail project, it could mean that the city would have to tear down the concrete columns that they are currently building.
Source: Honolulu Star Advertiser, 9-17-2013, www.staradvertiser.com
Posted by Jeff Uyemura-Reyes, Broker-in-Charge, REALTOR®
Global Executive Realty, LLC
www.myhawaiihomesearch.com
www.myhawaiicondo.com
www.myhawaiidreamhome.com
Posted by Jeff Uyemura-Reyes, Broker-in-Charge, REALTOR®
Global Executive Realty, LLC
www.myhawaiihomesearch.com
www.myhawaiicondo.com
www.myhawaiidreamhome.com
