HONOLULU (KHON2) — Hawaii’s largest infrastructure project is taking another big step, as the project broke ground on the next phase of the Skyline rail project.

The site was blessed on Monday, Aug. 11, at the future site of the Civic Center Station in Kakaako.

Breaking ground on the third segment of Skyline is not just about building the infrastructure to bring the rail system into the Downtown area, it’s about laying the foundation for the future of this island and developing sustainable transportation alternatives to serve neighboring communities.

Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi According to Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation officials, the initial phase will include drilling shafts for the columns, starting in the Iwilei area.

Crews will work Monday through Friday, and in some cases, Saturdays, from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Officials said construction for the third phase will require road closures in the Kalihi, Iwilei, Downtown, Chinatown and Kakaako area.

Check out more news from around Hawaii

“We’ve got to this point through cooperation and perseverance, and we will use that same approach to overcome the challenges that lay ahead to deliver this project within budget and on schedule, for the taxpayers of Honolulu,” HART Executive Director and CEO Lori Kahikina said.

The Skyline’s second phase is nearing completion. The full extension is expected to be open by 2030.

I thought this project was facing trouble with Japanese investors pulling out. Apparently I am misinformed the state is moving for with this massive infrastructure project. Curious to know if the people of Honolulu are in favor of this project.