Pearlridge Monorail: Upgrading to Full Automation

The Pearlridge Center (Aiea, HI) comprises over 200 retail and dining establishments and is the largest indoor, super-regional shopping center in Hawaii. Unique to this development is the overall property configuration: two fully independent retail complexes, two community centers, and three office buildings, all located on 50 acres of property. The two complexes are linked by an innovative transportation solution based on monorail technology operating in semi-automatic mode. Having provided outstanding shuttle service for decades, the monorail system recently underwent a comprehensive rehabilitation program with the primary goal of upgrading the system from semi-automatic to fully-automatic operation. Other upgrades included a new communications system, fare collection system, platform screen doors, and other systems. In support of this rehabilitation project (known as the Pearlridge Monorail Automation and Communications Upgrade Project), Jakes Associates, Inc. (JAI) was asked to perform professional services over the life of the project which included strategic planning, system procurement management, engineering, design, and project oversight. This paper presents both challenges and opportunities faced by the project management team, system vendors, and system owner and summarizes project activities that resulted in a system that can safely operate in full automation mode.