Kekaha HI5 closure sends residents to Kapa‘a and Līhu‘e centers

The Kekaha HI5 Redemption Center, run by Kaua‘i Community Recycling Services (KCRS), closed on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026 because of inclement weather, creating a short-term disruption for residents who rely on the island’s bottle and can refund system. The county issued an operational advisory directing patrons to alternate locations and to contact the Solid Waste Division for questions.

Kapa‘a’s HI5 Redemption Center remained open on Jan. 14 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., providing a nearer option for many east- and central-side residents. The Līhu‘e Redemption Center, operated by Reynolds Recycling, kept its doors open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a lunch closure from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. These centers served as the immediate alternatives for those unable to use the Kekaha site during the weather-related closure.

The interruption underscores how weather can affect essential, routine services on Kaua‘i. Many households, ‘ohana-run operations and independent collectors count on HI5 redemptions for both recycling and the modest refunds that help household budgets. A temporary shutdown at a west-side center often means longer drives and extra time to process materials, particularly for residents without easy access to transportation.

County officials framed the notice as an operational advisory rather than a long-term suspension, and directed residents to the Solid Waste Division at (808) 241-4841 for questions and further information. The advisory aimed to limit confusion by listing specific hours for the open centers, including Līhu‘e’s midday closure, so residents could plan trips accordingly.

KCRS and Reynolds Recycling provided the day’s operational structure by keeping their other sites open, which helped maintain continuity in the island’s HI5 system. For those collecting larger volumes or coordinating community cleanups, the lunch closure at Līhu‘e and Kapa‘a’s earlier closing time may require scheduling adjustments.

For now, the closure stands as a reminder of Kaua‘i’s vulnerability to weather-related interruptions and the importance of flexible options across the island’s redemption network. Residents affected by the Kekaha closure are advised to use the Kapa‘a or Līhu‘e centers as listed and call the Solid Waste Division at (808) 241-4841 for updates and guidance on next steps.