Honolulu, HI — A major milestone for Honolulu’s rail project is finally here as Skyline Segment 2 prepares to open this week, expanding the island’s growing rail network and connecting riders to key destinations across Oahu.
The new segment adds five additional miles of track and four new stations, extending passenger service from East Kapolei to Middle Street. Officials say this marks one of the most significant steps forward in Honolulu’s ongoing public transportation transformation.
Expanded Routes and Extended Service Hours
With the opening of Skyline Segment 2, passengers will experience longer operating hours, with trains now running daily from 4 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. The new section will connect commuters to major employment and activity centers, including Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, and the Kalihi Transit Center.
According to KITV Island News, the expansion is designed to strengthen connectivity between residential, industrial, and business districts, offering Oahu residents a faster, greener way to move around the island.
“Riders will now have the chance to get to major employment and activity centers on Oahu,” officials said in a statement, highlighting how the new segment supports both workers and students traveling across the city.
Free Rides to Celebrate the Launch
To mark the grand opening, Skyline, TheBus, and TheHandi-Van will offer free rides on Saturday, Oct. 18, and Sunday, Oct. 19, between 4 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. each day.
Passengers must still tap their HOLO cards when entering stations or boarding buses, but no fare will be deducted during the promotional weekend. The Handi-Van will also provide free transportation for registered riders.
“Even though the rides are free, we ask all passengers to tap in with their HOLO cards so we can monitor ridership and maintain smooth service,” a spokesperson from the Department of Transportation Services said.
Regular passenger service for Skyline Segment 2 will officially begin on Thursday, Oct. 16, at 4 a.m.
Connecting More of Oahu
Alongside the Skyline expansion, the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Transportation Services (DTS) is introducing new and modified TheBus routes to better connect the rail line to surrounding areas. These adjustments will make it easier to reach popular destinations such as Chinatown, Downtown Honolulu, Kaka‘ako, Ala Moana, Waikīkī, and UH Mānoa.
Transportation officials say the goal is to create a more seamless travel experience, where residents and visitors can use a single fare system to reach both central Honolulu and outlying communities efficiently.
“This expansion represents a vision for a fully integrated transportation network that benefits all of Oahu,” DTS officials noted.
Honolulu’s Next Step Toward Modern Transit
The Skyline project remains a key part of Honolulu’s long-term plan to reduce congestion and promote sustainable urban mobility. As new stations open and routes expand, officials expect ridership to grow steadily.
With Segment 2’s launch, Honolulu moves one step closer to completing its ambitious island-wide rail system, bringing a new era of convenience and accessibility for daily commuters.
Will you be riding Skyline Segment 2 during the free weekend? Share your experience and thoughts in the comments below.
