LIHU‘E — Effective Wednesday, Kukui Grove Center changed its operation hours to be in compliance with social-distancing guidelines established by health officials, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and state and local guidelines.
The shopping center’s official hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
“Please note there are merchants that open earlier and stay open later, and there are a few of the merchants who are closed,” said Melissa McFerrin-Warrack, the center’s specialty leasing and marketing manager. “Times Supermarket and CVS Longs Drugs are maintaining their regular store operating schedule.”
Some of the closed establishments include the Kaua‘i Ocean Discovery, Macy’s through March 31, Claire’s through March 27 and, starting today, Famous Footwear.
Merchants opening early include Kaua‘i Bakery and Jamba Juice.
Ross Dress for Less has adjusted its hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
“This COVID-19 situation is causing constant changes,” said David Sosner, center manager. “These are the most-recent changes, until they change again.”
The food court area has been spread out, and the stage has been removed, McFerrin-Warrack said.
“This allows for more social distancing,” she said. “Additionally, Aloha Ramen has gone to take-out service only in an effort to reduce the number of people who sit and enjoy their meals.
Kukui Grove’s schedule of regular events has also been temporarily discontinued. These events include the Monday market that used to meet at 3 p.m. in the area where Kumu’s Cupboard is located; Toddler Tuesdays; and the Aloha Friday entertainment schedule.
“Businesses are making adjustments to serve our community while following the guidelines of the CDC and local health officials,” McFerrin-Warrack said. “We are in the process of updating the Kukui Grove website to reflect these latest changes and hours of operation. We’re also putting up a social-media post demonstrating how everyone works together in these changing times.”
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
