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Vandalism, crime fears prompt overnight closure of Kauai park

Kauai County will close a popular beach park at night because of vandalism and illegal activity, county officials said.

Hanamaulu Beach Park will be closed from 10 p.m. until 6 p.m. starting Monday.

“We’ve been experiencing chronic issues in this park, and community members, unfortunately, no longer feel safe there at night,” said Director of Parks and Recreation, Lenny Rapozo, in a news release.  “So for the time being we’ll be closing a newly installed gate at 10 p.m. and will actively enforce any violations.”

Officials said vandals struck the park within a couple of days after community members cleaned it up in June.

Officials say the old pavilion structure, which will be demolished, is also attracting vagrants.

“Our goal is to return this beautiful park back to the community – clean and crime-free,” Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr., said in the news release. 

Day use of the park and use of the pavilion from 6:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. will still be allowed.  Camping at the park will be suspended while the overnight closure is in effect.

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