Ferry Project Report Released
Government Subsidy Needed To Keep Service
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A state report on the proposed ferry service between Ewa and Downtown Honolulu said that the project is a workable idea.
The state tested the commuter ferry for one year beginning in October of 1999.
The report pointed out that for the test only one ferry was used, and the facilities - docking, parking, passenger facilities - were makeshift.
The report concluded that it is possible to implement a reliable, high speed ferry between Ewa and downtown Honolulu.
Riders said that they were impressed with the service.
The report said that the ferry service would have to be part of a total transit system on water and land.
As for the ferry itself, the report said that faster is better. It suggested that 40 knots was preferred to compete with other forms of travel. However, a smooth ride is important so passengers don't arrive seasick.
The report suggested parking facilities with at least one space for every two riders.
The report looked at possible revenue, and said that one-way fares should run between $2.50- $4 with discounts for students, discounted monthly passes, but no discounts for seniors.
The ferry is targeted at working communters and students.
According to the report, a three vessel fleet would be an ideal size, with more added as ridership and routes expand.
The report concluded that the ferry would lose money and would need government subsidy at about the same level that is given to the bus.
It also concluded that the ferry would help promote the Kapolei second city concept.
The report pointed out that for the test only one ferry was used, and the facilities - docking, parking, passenger facilities - were makeshift.
The report concluded that it is possible to implement a reliable, high speed ferry between Ewa and downtown Honolulu.
Riders said that they were impressed with the service.
The report said that the ferry service would have to be part of a total transit system on water and land.
As for the ferry itself, the report said that faster is better. It suggested that 40 knots was preferred to compete with other forms of travel. However, a smooth ride is important so passengers don't arrive seasick.
The report suggested parking facilities with at least one space for every two riders.
The report looked at possible revenue, and said that one-way fares should run between $2.50- $4 with discounts for students, discounted monthly passes, but no discounts for seniors.
The ferry is targeted at working communters and students.
According to the report, a three vessel fleet would be an ideal size, with more added as ridership and routes expand.
The report concluded that the ferry would lose money and would need government subsidy at about the same level that is given to the bus.
It also concluded that the ferry would help promote the Kapolei second city concept.Copyright 2002 by TheHawaiiChannel.com All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
