Kokua Line
Kokua Line
Question: Why aren't chairs allowed in the University of Hawaii parking structure? When did this policy go into effect? Why aren't there any signs to let the public know about this and why isn't the policy enforced consistently? At the UCLA volleyball game, we were eating our bentos while seated in our folding chairs, and a young man came up and told us nicely that we couldn't sit where we were because it was a walkway. He didn't say chairs weren't allowed. At the BYU volleyball game, while sitting behind our car (we were not sitting in a walkway) an older man drove up in his golf cart and told us in not a very nice way that chairs and tables were not allowed. No reason was given and no aloha was shown. Everyone else we have come into contact with while parking or in the arena has been very nice, but this man on his golf cart needs a lesson in communicating with the public. UH’s ‘no tailgating’ policy
dates to arena's openingAnswer: There has been a "no tailgating" policy for the UH parking structure since the Stan Sheriff Center was built several years ago, according to UH spokesman Jim Manke.
There is a tailgating area in the courtyard adjacent to the women's locker rooms, although cooking fires are not allowed there, he said.
"There are signs in place to explain this policy, but they are admittedly pretty faded, and they're being replaced," Manke said, adding that employees who patrol the area are supposed to explain the tailgating options to people who want to set up tables and chairs.
He apologized if this was not done, as well as for the rude behavior of any parking attendant or maintenance employee.
"We know that for the most part, our staff are polite and professional in welcoming people to the UH campus, but we also know that this is sometimes not the case, and for that we're sorry," Manke said.
The tailgating restriction in the parking structure is a matter of safety, he explained, noting that the structure is much more confined than open parking lots, such as at Aloha Stadium.
"We're trying to avoid accidents, and need to stick to what we believe is a sensible policy that still provides alternatives for those who want to enjoy pre-game meals or snacks before entering the arena," he said.
Update on Kewalo Basin
In January, a reader complained about the difficulty vehicles had turning left from the Fisherman's Wharf/Kewalo Basin area onto Ala Moana because Ewa-bound traffic always seemed to block the intersection. She asked whether a "Do Not Block Intersection" sign could be posted.Jan Yokota, executive director of the Hawaii Community Development Authority, which oversees the Kakaako area, said the matter would have to be discussed with the state Department of Transportation, which is responsible for the boulevard.
She recently gave us an update, noting that two "Do Not Block Intersection" signs have been posted on Ala Moana, in the Diamond Head direction, at the intersection with the Ewa exit from Kewalo Basin.
Mahalo
To two unknown concerned persons who called police on Thursday, April 11, when they noticed a man lying on the ground in the parking lot of Windward Community College. Thanks to their interest and the professionalism and efficiency of the police, emergency medical technicians, and Castle Hospital emergency room doctors and staff, my husband has recovered from serious dehydration. -- Grateful Wife
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