In taking a look at the report, it's clear the experts' were tasked with reviewing the management of the project, not to assess the merit of the project itself.  

Yet, in addition to providing numerous recommendations on how to improve project management, the panel’s report states, “that once the project is complete it will significantly improve mobility throughout Honolulu.” Wait a minute, what is that statement based on?  The panelist didn’t study the project itself.  They did however spend all of their time in Honolulu interviewing HART staff, HART consultants and those working on the project. 
It is truly unfortunate that HART may use this report’s statement to counter anti-rail arguments.