Honolulu, HI

The Honolulu Advertiser published a timeline of events for the Hawaii Superferry.
Here’s a summary of what it said.

2004

The Hawaii Superferry starts laying the foundation of its business by agreeing to purchase two catamaran vessels. Even the U.S. House appropriates some money for ferry service between Hawaii and Alaska. Late 2004, we begin to hear complaints that of industrialization and congestion on Maui.

2005

Early in the year, the request for an environmental impact statement arises. At this time, Hawaii Superferry CEO John Garibaldi is already reportedly against the requirement of an environmental impact statement (EIS). The government intervenes and says that an EIS is not required. Additionally, Maui Judge Joseph Cardoza also throws out a lawsuit made by the Sierra Club, Maui Tomorrow and the Kahului Harbor Coalition saying that they had no standing to bring a lawsuit.

It’s obvious at this point that there is a request made by local environmental groups to have an environmental impact statement completed. They even go so far as to fight in the U.S. District Court for this EIS. The U.S. judge dismisses the environmental lawsuit. It’s interesting to note that throughout all this, the Hawaii Superferry has the backing of state and U.S. courts as well as the state government. They all seem to be pushing the Hawaii Superferry through.

2006

The Hawaii Superferry was pretty quiet throughout this year with the exception of one issue. The Superferry was accused of not being open or public about its plans. As a result a group of state senators threatened to remove $10 million in state money planned for harbor improvements. The response from CEO John Garibaldi was one of surprise and disappointment regarding the criticism.

2007

“Let’s get ready to rumble!!!!” From the start of the year, more talk regarding the Hawaii Superferry need to have an EIS done is met with anti-Superferry slogans and red shirts. State lawmakers kill a bill that would force an environmental review. In the “11th” hour, the environmental impact statement is gaining more support. The inter-island vessel is tested and passes with flying colors. In June of this year, the Hawaii Superferry arrived on O’ahu and becomes available for booking. The Hawaii Superferry sets sail for Kauai and the rest is history. It hasn’t sailed since.

What do you think about the Hawaii Superferry?

Honolulu advertiser, Hawaii superferry, Hawaii