A new route for The Kaua‘i Bus has been established on the Westside. “The move is part of a coordinated effort between our transportation and recreation agencies to provide our youth not only with activities in the Malama Na ‘Opio
A new route for The Kaua‘i Bus has been established on the Westside.
“The move is part of a coordinated effort between our transportation and recreation agencies to provide our youth not only with activities in the Malama Na ‘Opio program, but also with a way to get to the activities,” said Mayor Bryan J. Baptiste, in a press release.
“I’m delighted to see the program expanding so more youngsters have the opportunity to engage in wholesome, after-school activities.” Participants in the county’s Malama Na ‘Opio program on the Westside can now take part in an array of activities offered at the Hanapepe, Waimea, and Kekaha neighborhood centers, as well as at the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii – Waimea Clubhouse, and not have to worry about transportation to and from these activities, he said.
Earlier this year, new bus routes were set up in the Kawaihau (Kapa‘a) district for youngsters enrolled in the Malama Na ‘Opio programs in that area.
Classes offered in the Malama Na ‘Opio program include cooking, drumming, hip hop, hula or sewing.
Students can also enjoy the games available in recreation rooms at the Kalaheo Neighborhood Center or Kapa‘a Hawaii Army National Guard armory.
“We’re addressing the issues that prevent youngsters from participating in after-school activities, and transportation was definitely a big roadblock,” said Bernard Carvalho, director of the Offices of Community Assistance.
“Our goal is provide activities along with transportation in all five districts around the island.” While the expanded bus routes are designed to make it easy for middle- and high-school students to take part in after-school classes and activities, members of the general public are also welcome to take advantage of the increased service, Baptiste and Carvalho said.
The cost is the same as for any other public bus route. The per-trip fare is 75 cents for youth 18 and younger, as well as for seniors 60 and older. For all others, the cost is $1.50 per trip.
Monthly bus passes are also available for $15 at the county Department of Finance Treasury Division counters, located at the Lihu‘e Civic Center Kapule Building.
For more information about The Kaua‘i Bus, contact the OCA Transportation Agency at 241-6410.
For more information about youth activities available through Malama Na ‘Opio, call the OCA Recreation Agency at 241-4460.
