Hōʻaeʻae West Loch Station
Located in Waipahu, Hawaiʻi, Hōʻaeʻae station (also known as West Loch station) serves as a vital link in the Skyline metro system. Opened on June 30, 2023, this elevated facility provides a modern transit alternative for residents of the West Loch and Ewa Beach areas, reducing reliance on congested roadways.
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Key Facts
- Opening Date: June 30, 2023.
- Location: 94-135 Farrington Highway, Waipahu, Hawaiʻi.
- Ownership: Honolulu Department of Transportation Services.
- Parking: Temporary 21-space park and ride lot.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible for all passengers.
- Projected Usage: Expected to rank 4th in boardings (4,690 per day) once all 19 stations open in 2031.
Etymology and History
The station is named after the ahupuaʻa (a traditional Hawaiian land division) in which it is situated. In the Hawaiian language, "hōʻaeʻae" translates to "to make soft or fine." The naming process was a collaborative effort; the Hawaiian Station Name Working Group proposed names for nine stations on the Ewa end of the system in November 2017, which were officially adopted by the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) on February 22, 2018.
Service and Connectivity
Hōʻaeʻae station is designed for efficiency, featuring two tracks and two side platforms. Skyline trains operate on a frequent schedule, running every 10 minutes.
Operating Hours
- Weekdays: 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Weekends and Holidays: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Transit Connections
The station acts as a multimodal hub, connecting passengers to TheBus via several routes, including E, 40, 42, 43, 44, 81, 99, 444, and W1. In terms of rail progression, the station is positioned between Pouhala (toward Kahauiki) and Honouliuli (toward Kualakaʻi).
Surrounding Area and Future Development
The station primarily serves the greater Ewa Beach community. Its strategic location on Farrington Highway, less than half a mile from Fort Weaver Road, makes it accessible for residents of West Loch Estates, Ewa Villages, Ewa Gentry, Ocean Pointe, Hoakalei Resort, Ewa Beach, and Iroquois Point. It is also anticipated to serve the Village Park and Royal Kunia areas.
Currently, the north-facing exit provides immediate access to retail complexes, including the Shops at West Loch Station, which houses 20 tenants. Long-term urban planning envisions the transformation of the surrounding area into high- and medium-density mixed-use communities. This plan includes a pedestrian-oriented "main street" connecting the station directly to the edge of Pearl Harbor.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 21°22′41″N 158°01′22″W |
| Structure Type | Elevated |
| Platforms/Tracks | 2 Side Platforms / 2 Tracks |
| Parking Capacity | 21 Spaces |
| Primary Service Area | Ewa Beach and West Loch |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Hōʻaeʻae station open?
The station officially opened for service on June 30, 2023.
What are the operating hours for the Skyline trains?
Trains run from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, and from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends and holidays.
How often do trains arrive at the station?
Skyline trains are scheduled to run every 10 minutes.
Is there parking available at Hōʻaeʻae station?
Yes, there is a temporary park and ride lot with 21 available spaces.
Which bus routes connect to this station?
The station is served by TheBus routes E, 40, 42, 43, 44, 81, 99, 444, and W1.
What does the name "Hōʻaeʻae" mean?
In Hawaiian, "hōʻaeʻae" means "to make soft or fine" and refers to the ahupuaʻa where the station is located.