Parsons Brinckerhoff has been an integral part of the Hawaii community since 1966 and has delivered numerous transportation and infrastructure projects that have benefitted residents over the decades to improve the overall quality of life in the islands.

Our firm had the privilege to work on notable projects such as the H-3 Freeway that connects Windward with Leeward Oahu, the Fort Weaver Road widening that has provided added mobility to Ewa Beach, and the Adm. Clarey Bridge that delivered more accessibility to Ford Island — to name a few.

We are extremely proud to be working with the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation on the Honolulu high-capacity transit corridor project, which will positively impact generations to come.

As to the comments made by the authors of the commentary "How the City Misled the Public" (Honolulu Star-Advertiser, Insight, Aug. 21) concerning Boston’s "Big Dig" where Parsons Brinckerhoff was in joint venture on the Bechtel-led project, perhaps a quote from Editor Emeritus Kirk Landers, of Better Roads magazine (April 2011), a well-regarded industry publication, better offers a perspective:

"It reinvented a major city, created billions of dollars of new real estate, and enhanced the value of existing real estate for decades, perhaps centuries. It will pay for itself many times over in the years to come."

Parsons Brinckerhoff takes very seriously its work on all its projects. Technical excellence is the hallmark of our 126-year history; however, it is only with integrity, teamwork, excellence and respect — the values of the organization — that we continue to thrive and work on many of the truly great projects around the globe.

We consider the Honolulu rail transit project to be among these — and an important part of Oahu’s future.

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Samuel W. Tso is regional manager for Parsons Brinckerhoff.