Honolulu’s Rail Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Is An Assault On Private Property Rights!
“At each of the proposed 21 rail stations, the city wants Transit-oriented Developments (TODs)“within half a mile radius” vicinity. The proposed rail stations are located at every mile; this means the 21 square miles “worm” along the entire 21-mile rail corridor is up for grabs.
It’s not as if private owners can easily relocate down the road. Family inheritances, investments, and businesses built with sweat, equity, and sacrifices will be placed under the mercy of absolute powers of eminent domain. Kama’aina owners and businesses will be pushed out to pave the way for national and international investors.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i67hIaAe6hs
As it appears, the big corporate holders with hotels and shopping centers within the TOD vicinity are not in jeopardy. It’s the small residential properties, mom-and-pop stores, and warehouses that are most vulnerable.
The city of Honolulu must protect private property rights, plan within this constitutional right and not be too cozy with private developers by laying a framework for possible eminent domain abuse in the future.”
Jamies, Choon. The Hawaiin Independent 3 November 2012.