OED announces the launch of Play Streets Community Toolkit
LĪHU‘E – The Office of Economic Development (OED), in partnership with the County’s Planning Department, Mayor’s Office, Kaua‘i District Health Office, Get Fit Kaua‘i, and the Hawai‘i Department of Health’s Chronic Disease Prevention & Health Promotion Division, is pleased to announce the release of the Play Streets Community Toolkit.
The Play Streets Community Toolkit is a step-by-step guide designed to help residents, schools, and community groups host temporary, car-free street events that promote play, physical activity, and social connection in their own neighborhoods.
“Play Streets are about reclaiming our neighborhoods as safe, vibrant spaces where families can come together,” said Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami. “It’s a way to get back to our roots, building stronger communities and taking back our streets in the spirit of connection and fun.”
Play Streets events transform a short block or two into a safe, low-cost space for keiki and kūpuna to walk, bike, skate, and play, typically for a few hours on weekends or after school. The new toolkit simplifies the planning process with a clear checklist, best practices, and coordination tips all in one place.
“Through Play Streets, we’re giving communities the tools to create meaningful change right where they live,” said Nalani Brun, Director of the Office of Economic Development. “By empowering residents to take the lead, we’re fostering healthier, more connected neighborhoods across Kaua‘i.”
“Play Streets are simple, joyful, and powerful,” added Ka‘aina Hull, Director of the County’s Planning Department. “With this toolkit, communities across Kaua‘i and eventually statewide can bring neighbors together, support keiki health, and make our streets welcoming for everyone.”
“Regular physical activity is one of the best things we can do for health,” said Dr. Janet Berreman, Kaua‘i District Health Officer. “Play Streets lowers barriers to being active by meeting families right where they live. This toolkit provides a clear road map for getting started.”
What’s inside the Play Streets Community Toolkit:
- An 8-step event planning checklist
- Application form to get started
- Inventory of games and equipment available to borrow
- Tips for physical activity play by age group
- Template language for photo waiver notices
- Sample event layout
- Suggested volunteer guidelines and feedback form
- Post-event evaluation ideas
The Play Streets Community Toolkit is available online at www.playstreetskauai.com. Community members are encouraged to explore the toolkit, talk with their neighbors, and take the first step toward hosting their own Play Streets event.
Community groups, school ‘ohana, neighborhood boards, youth organizations, faith-based groups, and business associations are encouraged to use the toolkit to plan events that fit their neighborhoods’ needs. The Play Streets Kaua‘i team offers technical assistance, including identifying suitable blocks, coordinating basic traffic control, and sharing outreach templates.
“Even a two-hour Play Street can spark lasting change,” said Bev Brody, Director of Get Fit Kaua‘i. “When neighbors see kids playing safely and people walking and rolling comfortably, it builds momentum for ongoing healthy-streets efforts.”
Join the next Play Streets event during the Rice Street Block Party on Saturday, October 25, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. to see the fun in action and discover how easy it is to bring Play Streets to your own neighborhood.
If you need an auxiliary aid/service, other accommodation due to a disability, or an interpreter for non-English-speaking persons, please contact Therilynn Martin-Haumea at 808-241-4299 or tmhaumea@kauai.gov as soon as possible. Requests made early will allow adequate time to fulfill your request. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.
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