HART presents $968M budget for Honolulu's Skyline rail project

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) is presenting a $968.3 million budget for fiscal year 2026 to the City Council. This budget includes significant increases in debt service and labor costs, reflecting the rising expenses of the Skyline rail project. HART's capital budget is set to increase by 9.2% to over $526.9 million, driven by a $1.66 billion contract for the City Center Guideway and Stations. However, some rail projects may be delayed due to the higher-than-expected contract costs. The proposed operating budget will rise by 26.3% to $174.7 million, with most funds allocated for debt service. HART plans to fund 72 positions, up from 47 currently employed, as it prepares for ongoing construction and future projects.