Kauai Path Kaua'i Coastal Path

Based on the survey results obtained by the Dogs on the Path Task Force, Kauai Path's board recommends opening all of Ke Ala Hele Makalae to persons with dogs, subject to the terms and restrictions as set forth in Sections 19-1.3 and 19-1.4 of the Kauai County Code 1987, as amended relating to Parks and Recreation.

On May 5 the County Council's Parks Committee is expected to discuss proposed amendments to Chapter 19, Parks and Recreation, to allow dogs on the entire shared use path system, and to remove the 18-month trial period, trial period evaluation requirement, measurements, and expiration clause.
(See Proposed Draft Bill No. 2354, the text proposed to be deleted is highlighted on pages 4, 5, and 6; sorry for the poor quality).

This is a bill to permanently allow dogs on the path.
 
Some council members will likely oppose opening the entire path system to walking well-behaved, leashed dogs. Even though the trial period has gone exceptionally well, expect to hear from nay-sayers.
 
If you can make it to the meeting please do so. 

This round of the process began March 17, 2010, and could be every bit as time-consuming as the prolonged process when the issue of dogs on the path dominated Council resources in 2008. This time it is really extra important as this Council action has the potential to exile dog walking to the isolated stretch of Ke Ala Hele Makalae from the Kealia Lookout to Kuna Bay (Donkey Beach), or hopefully make dog-walking on Ke Ala Hele Makalae and future path systems permanent.  

In addition to the paved pathway, leashed dogs under direct control of their handlers ARE presently allowed within 6 feet of the path, and in all rest pavilions and restroom facilities that are part of the path system, as stated in the current ordinance.  (As a caution, an acquaintance was nearly sited by an enforcement officer because she stopped with her dog to rest further than 6 feet away from the path.  He did not give her a ticket, but the encounter was unpleasant.) 
 
If you need additional info please feel free to email or call Sue Hansen at 808 822 7721.

Why does Kauai Path endorse dogs being allowed on all of Ke Ala Hele Makalae? It's a great way to get the people who need exercise onto the path. See this article for supporting research.

Discussion of April 21, 2010 Council session and tactics.