The third phase of the project will expand service to downtown Honolulu on the ‘nation’s first large-scale, publicly run automated metro system.’
The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) announced a $1.66 billion contract to enhance its rail system, popularly known as the Skyline, the “first large-scale, publicly run automated metro system in the U.S.,” reports Jon Turi in The Cool Down.
“The initial phase completed in June 2023 already offers 20 four-car vehicles made by Hitachi Rail that can accommodate around 800 riders each. They're ADA-compliant, air-conditioned, and have bike, luggage, and, of course, surfboard storage areas.” The third phase of the project will, over the next five years, connect existing lines to downtown Honolulu.
The electric system is part of Hawaii’s strategy to switch to 100 percent renewable energy by 2045. The platforms feature protective platform screen doors that keep riders away from tracks, and the trains include bike and surfboard storage areas.
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