Michael Levine The Garden Island LIHU‘E — The long-term plan that could one day turn downtown Lihu‘e into a pedestrian paradise has taken a significant step forward in recent weeks. The Kaua‘i Planning Commission on Tuesday made changes to the
Michael Levine
The Garden Island
LIHU‘E — The long-term plan that could one day turn downtown Lihu‘e into a pedestrian paradise has taken a significant step forward in recent weeks.
The Kaua‘i Planning Commission on Tuesday made changes to the proposed ordinance that would implement the Lihu‘e Town Core Urban Design Plan, two weeks after it originally closed public testimony and first approved the proposal.
The changes were recommended by Planner Marie Williams and will effectively grandfather in non-conforming uses already in existence in four special planning areas created by the plan.
The Rice Street Neighborhood Design District “is envisioned as Lihu‘e’s ‘main street,’” according to the plan, and will “include boutique-type businesses and eateries (that fill the needs of nearby workers and local residents as well as sell local artwork and crafts), service-oriented shops and offices, and primary housing that will help activate the area at all hours of the day.”
The Kuhio Highway Neighborhood Design District, “the major gateway to Lihu‘e,” will be redesigned to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment and encourage walking along the road, the plan states.
The Akahi, Elua and Umi Streets Neighborhood Design District, “the transition area between residential land uses and the higher intensity commercial, retail and office uses along Kuhio Highway and the public uses within the Civic Center,” will see enhanced “pedestrian linkages” with new sidewalks on both sides of all roads, the plan states.
The Lihu‘e Civic Center and Community Facilities Neighborhood Design District, described in the Kaua‘i General Plan as the “heart” of Lihu‘e, will serve as a “hub” or “civic node” for the area, and development around the Civic Center will be compatible with and compliment the historic building and landmarks, the plan states.
Among the Lihu‘e businesses that would not have been allowed under the plan but will be allowed to continue to exist under the approved amendments are Kaua‘i Toyota and Lihu‘e Big Save, Williams and Planning Director Ian Costa said. They both said they could not think off the top of their head of any other businesses that will be impacted.
Williams said it would be “disadvantageous” to discourage existing businesses even if they are non-conforming.
However, a request by Clyde Kodani, an engineer representing Kaua‘i Toyota, to remove language requiring the company return to the county for use permits should it want to expand its business was not taken up by the commission.
Williams said the amendment recognizes, identifies and plans for non-conforming uses, but the county should maintain a “more stringent level of review” to make sure any “redevelopment” is consistent with the Town Core Plan.
Costa said the amendment could provide a mechanism for Kaua‘i Toyota to remain and expand. He recognized that use permits are “discretionary,” but said it was important to take a “more scrutinized look” at expansion in the area so as to stay true to the plan.
The new amended bill will now be sent to the Kaua‘i County Council for consideration.
For more information on the Lihu‘e Town Core Urban Design Plan, visit www.kauai.gov.
