Bill 60 Advances Toward Final Vote, Extension to UH Mānoa
Written by Jennifer McLawhorn, Managing Editor
HART
HONOLULU - The Infrastructure, Transportation, and Technology Committee advanced an amended Bill 60 for a final vote, which would allow HART to begin extension plans.
According to a report in Hoodline, the amended bill would allow the Honolulu Authority of Rapid Transportation (HART) to begin plans for extensions of the Minimum Operable Segment. These include planning, studies, surveys, preliminary engineering, and environmental work. However, the city has stressed that this bill authorizes planning only, and it does not include any decisions on funding.
There is a provision that says that “The Council approves all extensions to the minimum operable segment that adhere to the locally preferred alternative.” Additionally, HART leaders told members of the council that it supports extension plans, but these are not currently funded, as of reporting. HART would assess a 3.2-mile extension that goes toward UH Mānoa.
The Council will have a final reading of Bill 60 on February 18. If approved, it would become city policy. Even if approved, it once again stressed that it does not indicate construction funding, and any extensions could move forward if funds were secured separately.
