What is Play Streets?
Play Streets refer to the temporary closure of streets, that for a specified time period (around 3-5 hours) create a safe, publicly accessible space for [keiki, ʻōpio, and/or their ʻohana] to engage in active play (closures can be recurring or episodic).
What is the Play Streets Kaua‘i (PSK) Program?
The Play Streets Kaua‘i (PSK) Program has progressed from a pilot stage into a long-term island-wide program. Launched in Fall 2022, the PSK program creates a uniquely-Kauaʻi version of Play Streets by directly engaging our play “experts”—the keiki and ʻohana of Kauaʻi— in design and implementation while streamlining the application and approval process.
The PSK Program is community driven, allowing residents the opportunity to choose how streets or non-active spaces can be used as public spaces, temporarily, periodically, or long-term. View the video below to catch a glimpse of a Play Streets Kaua‘i event that was held at King Kaumuali‘i Elementary School.
Benefits of Play Streets
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Connects Communities
Play Streets bring neighbors together in a safe, shared space, creating opportunities to meet, socialize, and strengthen relationships. By connecting people of all ages, these events help foster a sense of belonging and pride in your neighborhood.
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Promotes Active Play
PSK provide safe, traffic-free streets where keiki, teens, and kupuna can be active and have fun. From games and sports to creative movement and intergenerational play, these events encourage healthy lifestyles and joyful physical activity.
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Supports Local Engagement
By involving families, volunteers, and local organizations, PSK events strengthen community participation and collaboration. Residents get a chance to lead activities, share resources, and contribute to a vibrant, connected neighborhood.
Project Updates
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PSK Annual Report
Take a look at the Play Streets Kaua‘i Annual Report and check out how the first year panned out.
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Community Toolkit
Do you live on Kaua‘i and want Play Streets in your community? Check out the toolkit and learn more about the planning process and the logistics needed to host your own Play Streets event.