STORY SUMMARY>>>

The West Oahu Economic Development Association and the Kapolei Chamber of Commerce held a forum Thursday at Waipahu’s Filcom Center featuring the three most viable candidates for Honolulu mayor: incumbent Mufi Hannemann, Councilwoman Ann Kobayashi, and U.H. Civil Engineering Professor Panos Prevedouros.

The most top of mind issue for members of the two organizations was the future of rail transit, a proposed 20-mile elevated railway from East Kapolei to Ala Moana that’s estimated to cost $3.7 billion in 2006 dollars.

The first question asked to the three candidates: What will you do to make sure rail or other forms of mass transportation happen and serves the needs of West Oahu residents?

"Rail will never solve any congestion problems whatsoever,” said Prevedouros. “At best rail will increase public transit ridership from 7% to 9% - a drop in the bucket.”

Prevedouros said high occupancy toll lanes, or HOT lanes are a better and less expensive solution to Oahu’s traffic congestion.

"Whether it's steel on steel, rubber on concrete (or) HOT lanes,” said Kobayashi in response to the same question, “whatever is selected we must move forward and get this done.”

Kobayashi prefers using rubber tire on concrete technology on the proposed fixed guideway system, which she says is a more cost effective alternative to rail.

Hannemann did not rebut Prevedouros’ claim that rail would do little to solve Oahu’s congestion. Instead the mayor focused on the proposed rail system as another option for commuters.

"It's all about having choices because that is what we are lacking,” Hannemann told the crowd. “We don't have choices other then our vehicle and our excellent bus service, so rail will be the centerpiece of an integrated multi-moto system."

The three mayoral candidates will take part in their first true debate on September 9 at the Hawaii Theatre from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Hawaii’s primary election is Saturday, September 20.

For more information on who's donating to each candidate, click here

Andrew may be reached at apereira@khon2.com or ph. 591-4263.