HONOLULU (KHON2) — The long-awaited children’s playground at Kolowalu Park reopened on Wednesday, Nov. 27, allowing keiki in the Ala Moana and Kakaako area to burn off their energy before Thanksgiving day.
City officials announced the park’s temporary closure in mid-August to prepare for the updated “state-of-the-art playground design.”
The park’s upgrades aimed to serve a greater range of ages and abilities, creating a playspace where every keiki can play and interact together.
According to HCDA executive director Craig Nakamoto, the new space creates opportunities for keiki to “use their imagination, discover and learn social skills while having fun outside in the fresh air.”
He expressed his appreciation to the HCDA staff and contractor, Inspired Play Hawaii, for creating Oahu’s first inclusive playground in the heart of Kakaako.
Officials said the playground services all keiki, from those who use mobility devices to those with sensory, communication and emotional regulation challenges.
When designing this project, we envisioned a space for every child—accommodating a full spectrum of abilities and needs. The sensory play panels throughout the play area offer unique ways for kids to engage—whether through sound, sight, motion, or touch. These elements and more open new possibilities for connection and play, ensuring every child feels welcomed and supported.
Danielle Sagum, Inspired Play Hawaii owner and operator
Earlier this year, the City also installed new benches, picnic tables and adult fitness equipment on the makai side of the park.
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Crews will continue to work on the opening of a new dog park on the mauka side of the park, designed with a Hawaiian sense of place. It’s set to open in early 2025.