HART extends Stantec’s contract for rail project

Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) has extended Stantec’s contract to provide construction engineering and inspection services for the east section of the automated light-rail project. Stantec says the $119-million contract extension will run through the end of 2026 and includes the possibility of a five-year extension to expected project completion in 2031.

“HART light rail is one of the most iconic transit projects in the United States, and a game-changer for transportation in Hawaii,” said Brian Norris, Stantec’s project manager and transportation business line leader. “We are extremely proud of the work we are doing, and this effort is essential to delivering the project for the people of Hawaii. Project management and construction management are growth areas for our transportation business, and we continue to provide this expertise across markets in North America.”

The 20-mile, 21-station elevated system will connect West Oahu with the Honolulu International Airport, downtown Honolulu and the Ala Moana Center. The light-rail system will be the first fully electric, driverless light-rail system in the United States.

Stantec staff will assist with construction management and successful project delivery for HART’s large, complex construction projects, including the light rail guideway, rail stations and utility relocation.

The new rail line is expected to support the anticipated 10 percent growth of Honolulu’s population by 2045. HART’s rail line will reduce transportation carbon emissions and contribute to the state’s climate goals.

“Light rail is an essential part of improving transportation in Hawaii and reaching our climate goals,” said Lori Kahikina, executive director and CEO, HART. “Providing a connecting spine through downtown, important transit centers and the airport will vastly improve our transit system. Stantec has been with us from the early days, and we value their expertise and longstanding service in delivering the project.”

Stantec notes its work on this system also supports the company’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, namely industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9); sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11); and climate action (SDG 13).