LIHU‘E — “I’m there,” said Melisa Garcia of DoU Fitness at Kukui Grove Center.
“I wondered what was under all that covering. I need to get some pictures so I can show my class members what we have here. I’m definitely going to try this with my boys.”
Drew Stenovich, County Councilmember Mason Chock and Melissa McFerrin-Warrack were working a test set up of the Pali Climbing Wall that will be open for people to experience starting at 11 a.m. today in the area near the Keiki Korner play area.
The wall is not a coconut tree, so bare feet are not recommended.
“The surfaces are kind of rough,” said Stenovich. “This is definitely not for bare feet. Shoes are definitely recommended.”
The Pali Climbing Wall is scheduled to be at the shopping center through the end of the winter break, McFerrin-Warrack said.
“It’s funded in part by CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act grant through the Kaua‘i Planning &Action Alliance, and gives the youngsters something to do during this COVID-19 period,” McFerrin-Warrack said.
The 30-foot climbing wall towers in the area fronting the recently-installed shark-information panel, and the early runs are designed to fine-tune the safety measures that cover the new attraction.
These are in addition to the COVID-19 safety measures being observed by the shopping center that include the wearing of face masks, indoor and outdoor, social-distancing and no large gatherings.
McFerrin-Warrack said there is ample time for people to get their free Arbor Day plant from the drive-thru giveaway at the parking lot near the old Sports Authority store today, find a parking space and try out the Pali Climbing Wall.
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
