‘Taking back our streets’: County announces launch of Play Streets Community Toolkit

Kaua‘i County Office of Economic Development — in partnership with Kaua‘i County Planning Department, Mayor’s Office, Kaua‘i District Health Office, Get Fit Kaua‘i and Hawai‘i Department of Health Chronic Disease Prevention & Health Promotion Division — recently announced the release of the Play Streets Community Toolkit.

The new 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 Kaua‘i County Mayor Derek Kawakami in a county announcement about the toolkit’s launch. “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 Kaua‘i County Office of Economic Development Director Nalani Brun in the announcement. “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 Kaua‘i County Planning Department Director Ka‘aina Hull in the announcement. “With this toolkit, communities across Kaua‘i and eventually statewide can bring neighbors together, support keiki health and make our streets welcoming for everyone.”

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 at the Play Streets Kaua‘i website.

Community members are encouraged to explore the toolkit, talk with their neighbors and take the first step toward hosting their own Play Streets event.

“Regular physical activity is one of the best things we can do for health,” said Kaua‘i District Health Officer Dr. Janet Berreman in the announcement. “Play Streets lowers barriers to being active by meeting families right where they live. This toolkit provides a clear road map for getting started.”

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 neighborhood needs.

The Play Streets Kaua‘i team also offers technical assistance, such as identifying suitable blocks, coordinating basic traffic control and sharing outreach templates.

“Even a two-hour Play Street can spark lasting change,” said Get Fit Kaua‘i Director Bev Brody. “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 from 4 to 8 p.m. Oct. 25 during the Rice Street Block Party to see the fun in action and discover how easy it is to bring Play Streets to your own neighborhood.