In a positive sign that Honolulu’s rail project will get the federal funds it is expecting, the appropriations committees of both the Republican House and the Democratic Senate today approved $250 million for the project.

The news was not unexpected after the federal government signed a Full Funding Agreement with the project last year.

Still, the decision was hailed by members of Hawaii’s Congressional delegation.

“I am pleased to announce a key hurdle was cleared today,” said Sen. Brian Schatz, a member of the Senate Transportation Committee, who like others in the delegation pushed for the funding.

Sen. Mazie Hirono said, “This is yet another indication of the federal government’s commitment to the project. In these difficult economic times, when decisions about federal funding remain highly competitive, these actions by the House and Senate Appropriations Committees demonstrate that support for Honolulu’s rail project remains solid as this project moves forward.”

And Rep. Colleen Hanabusa said, “This long-awaited transit project will provide a transportation alternative for Hawaii’s growing population, create jobs, and reduce our dependence on foreign oil.” 

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard also said  the funding “will move this initiative forward and will serve as a boost to our state’s economy.”

(Honolulu Rail Transit)

— Kery Murakami