A referendum on Honolulu's planned elevated commuter rail appears poised to pass, according to early election results. However, the contest so far remains close.

As of the first election printout at about 8 p.m. 51 percent of votes favored a city Charter amendment authorizing the construction of a steel-wheel on steel-rail train and 45 percent of votes were against.

A "yes" vote allows the city to begin construction on the 20-mile rail project, while a "no" vote all but kills the $4.3 billion project.

The early results showing a majority of voters for rail indicates that residents appear committed to the project despite concerns caused by the recent global economic downturn. The favorable rail results likely were bolstered by Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann's strong advocacy for the project and a recent major pro-rail ad campaign.