Commuters and businesses in Honolulu are bracing for significant disruptions as major lane closures begin on Monday, August 18, 2025, along Nimitz Highway in downtown Honolulu. The closures, which will run 24/7 for the next five years, are due to construction of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation's (HART) Skyline rail system. This extended period of construction is poised to impact traffic flow and accessibility throughout the city center.
According to a report by Aloha State Daily, the closures will affect one lane of both eastbound and westbound Nimitz Highway between ‘Awa and Bishop streets. Detours will be in place at key intersections, including ‘Awa Street, Smith Street, Nu‘uanu Avenue, Bethel Street, and Fort Street. Iwilei Road between Kuwili Street and North King Street, as well as the westbound ramp from Nimitz Highway onto Iwilei Road, may also face closures, adding further complexity for drivers. Eastbound and westbound drivers are advised to consider alternative routes, such as King and Beretania streets.
The construction is part of the City Center Guideway and Stations project, the latest phase of the Skyline rail project. This project is expected to continue through September 2030. While the rail system aims to improve public transportation in Honolulu, the extended lane closures pose challenges for various stakeholders. Businesses in the downtown and Iwilei areas may experience reduced customer traffic, potentially impacting revenue. Commuters will undoubtedly face longer travel times and may need to adjust their daily routines to accommodate the congestion.
Hawaii News Now reported that the Skyline rail project's construction has already entered its final phase, but it continues to face criticism from some residents due to delays and cost overruns. The current lane closures underscore the ongoing impact of this ambitious infrastructure project on the daily lives of Honolulu residents and the operational aspects of local businesses. Furthermore, the Hawaii Real Estate News noted that Phase 3 of the project includes adding six new stations and three miles of elevated guideway, stretching from Middle Street to Civic Center, with a completion target of 2030. This means that the traffic disruptions will be a factor for the foreseeable future.
Businesses and individuals are encouraged to stay informed about the construction schedule and plan accordingly. Exploring alternative routes and transportation options is highly recommended to mitigate the effects of these long-term lane closures.
