[ OUR OPINION ]

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State needs to gear up
for interisland ferries

THE ISSUE Hawaii Superferry is steering steadily through state regulatory waters.

As a proposal for an interisland ferry system tacks closer to Hawaii's ports, it appears the only issue that could cause it to founder is money. The company hoping to run the vessels is casting about for $55 million to set the project afloat, but its officials seem confident it can raise the cash.

Hawaii Superferry is enjoying a smooth sail through state regulatory waters. A hearing conducted by the Public Utilities Commission this week drew favorable comments and business interests, and the tourism industry and residents have indicated that they look forward to the day the ferries ply island waters.

What seem to be missing are plans by the state to make sure necessary harbor facilities are in place to support the ferries, which will dock at Honolulu, Kahului, Lihue and Kona. The ferries will require piers or berths, parking, on- and off-loading for cars and trucks, and passenger facilities, like waiting areas and restrooms. Though Hawaii Superferry does not expect to launch service for at least two more years, the state should be gearing up to accommodate the enterprise.

The ferries could prove to be a boon to Hawaii's economy, and not only for the 300 new jobs the company expects to create. Also seen are increases in tourism, with more visitors attracted by water travel and as airlines trim interisland flights.

For island businesses, the cargo-carrying ferries open markets that had been limited by cost and space aboard planes and barges. Farmers would be able to move agricultural products from field to trucks, which would drive on and off a ferry to ease delivery to stores and wholesalers. Small businesses on neighbor islands would be able to move their goods more easily, capturing profits from retail centers on Oahu. Even tight housing in Honolulu might ease if commuting from less populated islands becomes easier.

If investors need an endorsement, they could follow the lead of America Online co-founder Steve Case, who says he has put money in Hawaii Superferry because it will "stitch our islands into a single unified market."

But there is much to be done before the system becomes a reality. Gov. Lingle said last July that the undertaking is a "huge challenge" for the state. In Kahului harbor, for example, cruise ship dockings at the Maui port are expected to increase to 334 days a year in 2007, and space there has already become a concern.

It is not too early for the state's leaders to set out strategies for this new venture. As the company gathers investors to steer its end, the state should set a clear course for the voyage.