Jaunted

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Hawaii's Newest Tourist Attraction: Commuter Rail?

On a recent trip to the Aloha State, we saw many on both Oahu and the Big Island spending their days holding signs, waving to drivers and just generally helping out their candidates of choice.

Although the state is projected to elect native son Barack Obama, there's also a close race that will directly affect the residents of Honolulu. The state is looking to build a new high-speed elevated commuter rail that will run parallel in some areas to the main drag, H-1. If approved, the 20-mile stretch is expected to cost more than $4 billion and could open by 2014.

During our visit, we noticed a lot more signs against the proposed railway, but apparently those in favor of the new rail system are outspending those opposed five to one. We’ll leave it up to the citizens of Oahu to figure out what’s best for their commuting needs and environment, but if we have the option during a future visit, we’ll definitely go for a ride!

Related Stories:
· Pro-rail Holds 5-1 Spending Advantage [Honolulu Advertiser]
· Hawaii Rail Transit Cost Now at Least $4.34B [Honolulu Advertiser]
· Go Rail Go! [Official Site]
· Stop Rail Now [Official Site]
· Honolulu High-Capacity Transit Corridor Project [Official Site]
· Hawaii Travel coverage [Jaunted]

[Photo: GoRailGo]