Keopuolani Leash-Free Dog Park Grand Opening

Keopuolani Park, photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

Central Maui’s first leash-free dog park will officially open on Saturday, March 16 at Keopuolani Park in Kahului.

After the 9 a.m. grand opening and blessing even ton Saturday, the park will be open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The dog park features two fenced areas, one for large dogs and another for dogs less than 25 pounds.

“Our community needs this kind of park, because as our population grows, so does the number of pets,” said Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa today.

“It is important for dogs to get exercise and this park will provide animal lovers this opportunity. I hope that responsible dog owners will use this park as a place where their pets can roam free,” said Mayor Arakawa in a statement.

The dog park can be accessed from Kanaloa Avenue by turning into the park on Keopuolani Parkway. The parking lot is located near the perimeter of the YMCA property, and is equipped with a crosswalk that leads to the dog park.

In addition to the fenced facility, the park also features accessible drinking fountains: two fountains for people and one ground-level fountain for dogs.

Mayor Arakawa encouraged dog owners to keep their dogs on a leash when they go to the beach, on hiking trails or in other public areas saying, “As dog owners, we are responsible for the actions of our pets.”

Dog enthusiasts and volunteers are being recruited to help support the new park by helping the Parks Department in its effort to educate the community in proper dog park etiquette. Volunteer recruitment is being coordinated by Parks employee Sue Kiang, who can be reached by calling 270-7329.