Kaua’i news briefs for Aug. 19: Road closures, community needs survey, water quality report and more

Schatz, US Transportation secretary discuss fed support for Hawai‘i recovery from Lala

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, a Hawai‘i Democrat, spoke with U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy on Aug. 17 about providing federal support as Hawai‘i recovers from Hurricane/Tropical Storm Lala.

Schatz urged Duffy to approve a forthcoming request from the state for emergency funding to help clear debris and repair roads and highways damaged by the storm.

“I had a constructive conversation with Secretary Duffy, and he offered to help with Hawai‘i’s recovery from [Hurricane/Tropical Storm Lala],” said Schatz in a release. “Clearing and restoring roads is a top priority, and we’re working closely with state and federal agencies to deliver the resources needed to do it as quickly as possible.”

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Reminder: One-lane road closure, water system upgrade work scheduled in Kapaʻa

Kauaʻi County Department of Water and contractor Hawaiian Dredging Construction remind the public that water system upgrades are planned Aug. 19 on Kaʻapuni Road in Kapaʻa. A one-lane road closure will be in effect from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. near Kapahi Park, on a portion of Kaʻapuni Road near the intersection of Kaʻapuni Road, Kawaihau Road and Kapahi Road.

The upgrade will tie in two connection lines associated with the Kapaʻa Homesteads water tanks project.

Traffic control personnel and flaggers will be on-site to direct traffic and help maintain safe passage through the area. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to allow extra travel time if they must drive through the work zone. Updates will be posted at the county Water Department website.

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Agency on Elderly Affairs invites public to participate in area plan survey

The Agency on Elderly Affairs invites older adults, caregivers, families and service providers to participate in a community needs assessment survey that will help shape the next 4-year Area Plan from 2027 to 2031, guiding services, funding priorities and supporting Kaua‘i’s aging community.

Older adults, caregivers, families, and other members of the community are asked to complete the Caregiver/Kūpuna Survey. Service providers are asked to complete the Provider Survey. Residents and providers are encouraged to submit their responses as soon as possible.

These short surveys are part of a statewide initiative. Community responses will play a crucial role in informing local planning efforts, identifying emerging needs and improving future aging related services around the Kaua‘i. Contact the Agency on Elderly Affairs at 808-241-4470 or via email at elderlyaffairs@kauai.gov for additional information.

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Surfrider Kaua‘i Blue Water Task Force water quality report for August

Surfrider Kaua‘i’s Blue Water Task Force tests coastal water for enterococcus, a fecal indicator bacteria. Elevated levels of the bacteria indicate other harmful pathogens could be present that can make people sick.

The volunteer-operated program’s August 2026 report found only 9 sites around Kaua‘i had enterococcus levels exceeding the state’s water quality standards. All of the high bacteria sites were collected in or near freshwater outlets. Click here to view historical Blue Water Task Force data.

Ocean users are urged to avoid brown water and sites that exceed standards for bacteria. Exercise caution after major rain events and wait at least 24 to 48 hours before going back into the ocean. Always remember to rinse.

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Lane closures scheduled for portion of Wailuā

Kaua‘i County Department of Public Works and contractor The Cutting-Edge remind the public that lane closures are in effect along a portion of Kalama Road in Wailuā from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting, on weekdays through Aug. 20. The closures are necessary for emergency tree removal.

Traffic will be reduced to one lane with alternating flow, and intermittent full road closures could be necessary. Flaggers will be positioned at the work zone to direct traffic. Motorists are advised to make appropriate arrangements, use alternate routes when possible and allow extra time to get to their destinations if they must drive through the work zone. No parking will be allowed in the area.

Contact Kelli with Kaua‘i County Department of Public Works Roads Division at 808-241-4899 or via email at koku@kauai.gov for additional information.