HI HR162

Urges the Governor to reestablish an intra-island ferry service between the Ewa region along the Leeward Coast of Oahu and downtown Honolulu by 2015 to reduce traffic congestion.

Requires the Governor to submit a report to the Legislature by 20 days before the 2021 Regular Session detailing the ferry system's effect on traffic congestion, associated costs with cost-benefit analysis, and any necessary legislation.

Notes that Honolulu ranked second in the nation for traffic congestion in 2013, with drivers wasting 60 hours annually in traffic, and that average commute times from Ewa to downtown Honolulu exceed 75 minutes.

Identifies existing harbor infrastructure in the Ewa region and Honolulu Harbor as sufficient to support ferry operations without requiring extensive environmental studies or major infrastructure costs.

Directs reassessment of the ferry system after completion of the high-speed rapid transit system expected in 2019, and requests copies be transmitted to the Governor and Director of Transportation.