Linking North Shore communities by a multi-use trail system will be the topic of discussion at a community meeting tonight at the Princeville Community Center. “There are no bike lanes in Hanalei and Princeville,” meeting coordinator and Princeville resident Michaelle
Linking North Shore communities by a multi-use trail system will be the topic of discussion at a community meeting tonight at the Princeville Community Center.
“There are no bike lanes in Hanalei and Princeville,” meeting coordinator and Princeville resident Michaelle Edwards said. “You can’t hike or bike into Hanalei without risking your life. I want to change that.”
After speaking about the lack of trails on the North Shore with Joey Klein, a trail specialist with the International Mountain Biking Association, Edwards decided to bring him to Kaua‘i to talk to the community.
“IMBA can tell you how to make it happen with funding from the state, clubs, businesses, organizations and federal grants,” Edwards said. “And whatever we make, IMBA will match it.”
The IMBA is a non-profit educational association with the mission to create, enhance and preserve great trail experiences, according to the IMBA Web site.
At the meeting, Klein will give a presentation on “Trails from Around the World.”
Klein has helped plan and build multi-use trails around the United States and internationally, according to Edwards.
“Kaua‘i Path was created to be an advocate for an increase in accessibility in biking and walking,” said Thomas Noyes, secretary for the Kaua‘i Path Board of Directors.
“I think it’s great to get an international perspective on opening up areas up north for access.”
Noyes added that he thinks there will be plenty of community support for a path on the North Shore.
Edwards said that with the rise in fuel costs, locals and visitors alike will be walking and biking more.
“I have this gigantic vision,” Edwards said of the path. “I hope others have that vision too.”
The community meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. tonight at the Princeville Community Center.
