Honolulu's mayor says the city's rail project is on track but will need a permanent funding boost, in a mixed-but-mostly-upbeat update for commuters and taxpayers.

• The rail line has finished 15 miles with 3 more to go, and construction should wrap by 2030, with full passenger service starting in 2031.
• The mayor wants the general excise tax surcharge that funds rail to continue indefinitely instead of expiring, arguing the project needs guaranteed long-term money; that will be a fight with state lawmakers.
• The city's police chief pulled 100 officers back onto street patrol to rein in a $6 million overtime overrun, a move the mayor backed despite some public criticism.
• A city council leadership shakeup is underway, but the mayor expects no change in how city hall works with the council on budget and priorities.

Outlook: Expect a push at the state legislature in the coming months to make the rail tax surcharge permanent, while the rail line keeps extending toward Ala Moana.