Play Streets Kauai (PSK) Frequently Asked Questions

What is PSK?

Play Streets Kaua‘i is a fun, free, and open to the public event where neighbors come together, get active, and enjoy a safe place to play.

The first PSK happened in 2022 during the 4th of July celebrations in Kekaha. We closed Elepaio Road near the Kekaha Neighborhood Center so keiki (children) and ‘ohana (families) could walk, run, bike, skate, and play without cars.

Since then, the PSK team has hosted over 15 events all around Kaua‘i — turning streets, parking lots, and other public spaces into safe, car-free play areas for a few hours.


Who is part of the PSK team?

Everyone on Kauai can be part of the PSK team. As of now, PSK coalition includes, 

  • Nā Lei Wili Area Health Education Center;

  • County of Kaua‘i (Mayor’s Office, Planning, and Office of Economic Development;)

  • Hawai‘i Department of Health – Kaua‘i District Health Office;

  • Get Fit Kaua‘i; and

  • All of our amazing volunteers and community partners: Kaua‘i Skate ‘Ohana, Toy Fit Kaua‘i, Marshallese Association of Kaua‘i, E Ola Mau o Kekaha, the Department of Education, and many others!

Why is PSK good for the community?

  • More chances to move – Walk, run, bike, skate, or play

  • Meet neighbors – Talk story, build friendships

  • Safer streets – No cars during the event

  • More watchful eyes – Adults helping and looking out for kids

Who can host a PSK?

  • Neighbors working together as a planning team.

  • Local nonprofits or community groups are welcome to lead or join PSK events.

  • NOTE: At least one team member must live on the street or in the area where the event will happen.

What are the responsibilities of the Planning Team?

  • Organize your team and fill out the PSK application.

  • Find and vet your own volunteers.

  • Invite your community to join.

  • Follow permit rules and state regulations.

You’re not alone! The PSK coalition will help by

  • Giving you tips and guidance for a successful event,

  • Working with local authorities for road closures and required permits, and 

  • Sharing equipment for your event.

What can we do at PSK?

  • Work with other groups or businesses.

  • Invite community members and partners from all over Kaua‘i!

  • Join other community events -must be free, accessible, and open to the public.-

  • Make the event easy for everyone to join -must provide accessibility.-

  • Keep it going for 2 or more hours.

What can’t we do at PSK?

When hosting a PSK event in any capacity or size, you are not allowed to:

  • Block highways or major intersections.

  • Use PSK equipment for private parties.

  • Charge money to the public to join the PSK portion of the event or keep people out. 

  • Utilize PSK equipment to fundraise money or promote a political campaign. 

  • Sell products or services utilizing PSK equipment.

  • Use smoking, tobacco, or alcohol products.

  • Hand out single-use plastic bottles.

What street can we choose for PSK?

PSK events can happen on county roads or public spaces. When picking your spot, please keep these things in mind:

  • Neighborhood streets: Talk with your neighbors first. Make sure everyone living on the street knows about the event, and at least half of them support the idea. If a neighbor opposes the idea, allow for them to share their thoughts and express their concerns, and try to get their buy-in before moving forward. If there are vacation rentals (TVRs) on the street, let the guests or managers know about the road closure.

  • Business streets: Visit the shop owners on the street. Explain how the event can be good for the community. Give them a chance to share their thoughts and get involved. When businesses support your idea, your event will be even more successful.

  • Important: 

    • Health centers, schools, and government offices must always stay open to traffic and accessible during their work hours.

    • State roads and highways are not eligible to participate in PSK.

What about insurance?

PSK events can have significantly different insurance requirements event-to-event primarily depending on partner requirements, location, and type of activity. Prior to planning out an entire PSK event, identify insurance requirements with partners and the location owner.

What are some tips for a great event?

  • Plan ahead and talk to your neighbors early.

  • Have a diverse planning team that knows or serves the communities.  

  • Let everyone in the area know about the event. 

  • Have enough volunteers from start to finish. 

  • Avoid the hottest times of the day.

  • Have a backup plan for rainy or windy conditions.