Hawaii Congressional Delegation Reaffirms Support for Federal Funding for Rail Transit

Press Release

HAWAII CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR FEDERAL FUNDING FOR RAIL TRANSIT

Hawaii's Congressional Delegation today reaffirmed its support for federal funding - whether the amount is $1 billion or $1.5 billion - for rail transit for Oahu.

"The Draft Environmental Impact Statement lays out all of the alternatives and the costs associated with the varying routes. The anticipated federal commitment is approximately 20 percent to 25 percent of the total cost. We will work together as a delegation to secure the necessary federal dollars to move this project forward," stated Senator Dan Akaka.

Representative Mazie Hirono added: "As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I am committed to secure the design and construction funding authorization for Oahu rail transit next year when my Committee reviews our nation's transportations needs for the next 6 years. House Transportation Chair James Oberstar expressed his strong support for this project, when he was in Hawaii."

Representative Neil Abercrombie said: "During our downturned economy, $1 billion to $1.5 billion is a huge infusion into our communities. The projection is 4,000 to 5,000 direct construction jobs and another 6,000 indirect employment for a total of between 10,000 to 11,000 jobs. This, while reducing traffic by some 21 percent to 23 percent, is a good investment which will do much to improve the quality of life for our West Oahu families."

Senator Dan Inouye said: "In 1992, when the Congress authorized $618 million for a Honolulu transit project, the total cost was $1.7 billion. Back then, we would have paid 33 percent of the total, but it was rejected. Just think, how far this transit system would have been today, had we simply stayed the course. Your Delegation is prepared to once again deliver the federal dollars required. Of course, there is risk, but there is much greater potential for loss should we fail to act once again. Let us be hopeful and positive about our future."

Members are available for additional comment. Please contact their respective press secretaries.