Accessible, Adaptive Kayaking Is Now Available at Scofield Park, MI
The City of Howell, Michigan, is the newest recipient of a BoardSafe Docks Adaptive Kayak Launch. Thompson Lake, located within Scofield Park, is pleased to promote itself as a kayaking destination accessible to enthusiasts of all abilities. The accessible and adaptive launch offers universal access to all and is now open for public use.
The City of Howell went out for public bid for the launch in early March 2023 and was passed by a City Council’s vote in late March. BoardSafe Docks was identified as the lowest bidder and offers a high-quality, aluminum-welded, adaptive kayak launch that is accessible to all. The launch was delivered to the City of Howell in May and was installed by their maintenance crew in mid-August.
Meeting the needs of people with disabilities was a priority in determining which projects they should fund. The new kayak launch uses a series of ramps, handrails, and platforms to assist those having varying mobility needs with launching canoes, kayaks, and other non-motorized watercraft into Thompson Lake. A gently-sloped ramp provides a sturdy avenue for people who use wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility devices to access the floating dock. Once on the dock, individuals can place their boat in an underwater saddle that securely holds the watercraft in place while the boater uses overhead support to lower themselves safely into their vessel.
The BoardSafe Adaptive Launch Project included a:
- 20-ft gangway and aluminum kayak chute.
- (2) 8x16 floating docks.
- (1) kayak launch with the Adaptive Boarding Kit that consists of:
- tiered, step-down bench with pull-out seat.
- overhead grab bar with grab straps.
- instructional sign for proper usage.
A link to the city’s Scofield Park and its amenities is available here: Scofield - Explore Brighton Howell Area.
The new, much-anticipated kayak launch with universal access has been installed near the beach area at Thompson Lake.
The new launch will allow people of all abilities to launch their kayaks and bring them back to shore safely and easily. It’s something the community expressed a desire for, that will improve all users’ paddling experience.
In addition to the new launch, other improvements are planned at the park, including new accessible ADA-compliant restrooms and concession facilities. Both bathrooms were ordered in April of this year, with an anticipated delivery date of next April.
Communities who are looking to increase accessibility for all paddlers and considering adding an adaptive kayak and canoe launch to their local lake or stream should click the following link for more information:
Find the Best Adaptive Kayak Launch Site—BoardSafe Docks
Because every site location and application is different, BoardSafe Docks has become the industry expert in location selection, site work, design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation of floating docks, piers, and adaptive kayak and canoe launches.
To discuss your project and learn more about BoardSafe Docks, our specific adaptive features that work for the widest range of users, our durable and long-lasting construction, and long-term maintenance suggestions, please call us at 610-899-0286 or contact us at BoardSafeDocks.com.
BoardSafe Docks—Meet Us Today at the Ohio River Way Summit!
BoardSafe Docks is in Madison, Indiana today, 10/26, at the Ohio River Way Summit. The Summit is happening directly on the river at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, 108 St. Michaels Avenue, Madison, IN 47250.
We’re proud to be one of the sponsors of the Ohio River Way Summit where we’ll be joining a diverse coalition of communities and organizations to discuss how river communities can grow around outdoor recreation.
Stop by our table today and say hello to Kelly Beals from BoardSafe Docks. Kelly will be able to share the benefits to paddlers, along with economic and ecological benefits to communities who invest in a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch and our other water access products.
BoardSafe Docks recognizes outdoor recreation has not always been inclusive. Our team is committed to offering a wide range of water accessibility products. We understand our products’ impact on communities and have witnessed how our accessibility products improve lifestyles for the adaptive and recreation-loving communities they serve. Come see us and learn how we can be part of your water access solution!
You can register for the summit here: https://www.ohioriverway.org/orw-summit
BoardSafe Docks looks forward to meeting you today in Madison!
BoardSafe Docks Provides an Adaptive Kayak Launch to Cayuga Lake
The Village of Unions Springs, located along the east side of Cayuga Lake, installed its first Adaptive Kayak Launch for its Blueway Trail. The public water trail connects non-motorized paddle vessels, like kayaks, standup paddleboards, and canoes, to treasured natural resources on beautiful Cayuga Lake, NY.
Cayuga Lake is one of eleven glacially-formed lakes, located in Cayuga County, NY. Located at Frontenac Park in Union Springs, BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch connects paddlers to the 40-mile lake ,offering them the opportunity to connect with friends and family and enjoy the beauty of the environment around the lake.
Traveling the Blueway Trail allows paddlers to access local businesses and recreation areas on the lake. It’s also a great way to enjoy the beauty of this glacially-formed freshwater lake from an on-the-water perspective, very different from the views on land. The Blueway Trail includes publicly-accessible launch sites that are spread out along the entire shoreline of Cayuga Lake. A significant portion of the Cayuga Lake shoreline is privately owned and developed. However, the trail guides paddlers to enter and exit the lake at numerous convenient public locations. These launch sites create opportunities for both short and long Blueway Trail trips. A pocket guide to the trail is available at the Visitor Center at the Taughannock Falls State Park Overlook and from Cayuga Lake’s Online Store.
Cayuga Lake Blueway Trail created a vision for memorable paddling trips for both novices and experts. The trail highlights rich historic landmarks and natural features found around Cayuga Lake. More information about the Blueway Trail and highlights from individual user experiences can be found on their Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages.
The Village of Unions Springs is located along the east side of Cayuga Lake. They were thrilled about adding their first BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch to their Blueway Trail. The Adaptive Launch offers universal access to their lake and provides adaptive features for paddlers who have limited mobility or require specialized support to make entering and exiting their kayak safe and easy. The new launch provides accessibility for all and the village acknowledged it’s a beauty!
Scope of work BoardSafe Docks designed, fabricated, and built the new kayak launch and its easy-to-install foundation system. The system is fabricated from a 24-ft long aluminum gangway and chute to provide access to the water. A two-part pre-cast concrete block system was used as the foundation bulkhead. This solution eliminated the need to pour concrete in place and significantly reduced the soil disruption on the shore. BoardSafe worked alongside members of the Highway Department from the village of Union Springs to install the foundation.
Below is a video highlighting the installation of the mounting angle to the concrete bulkhead during the installation of a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch.
Installing an Adaptive Kayak Launch: Mounting Angle on Concrete Bulkhead
A benefit for all paddlers using this new launch system is that the new kayak launch re-directs paddlers and kayak fishermen away from the existing motorized boat ramp to reduce congestion at this very popular fishing destination. This improves the safety of paddlers looking to get out onto the lake and keeps them safely away from boat traffic launching at the same time. Fishing, boating, and kayak fishing are all very popular activities on Cayuga Lake. The lake currently holds the state’s record for the largest smallmouth bass, which was caught on Cayuga Lake this year.
The community is so happy with the feedback about its trail system and the benefits it provides for the community for public recreation. Their new water trail draws family and friends to the lake and helps support the business owners around the lake. They hope to add more sites to the trail in the future in partnership with private landowners and business owners, while promoting good stewardship of their natural resources for generations to use and enjoy in the years to come.
BoardSafe Docks understands the value an accessible launch brings to communities.
An accessible kayak launch with adaptive features benefits a significant portion of the population, including people with mobility impairments, older adults, and people with temporary injuries or permanent conditions. Ask any adaptive kayaker about their feelings of enjoyment, liberation, and empowerment after they complete a paddle. Many will tell you they cannot wait to get back out on the water!
Kayaking promotes healthy living, connects friends and families with each other and with nature, and encourages paddlers to be good stewards in caring for our natural resources.
BoardSafe prides itself on developing a trusting and respectful relationship with its clients throughout the design and manufacturing process. Their team understands their products’ impact on communities and has witnessed their product designs improve lifestyles for the adaptive and recreation-loving communities they serve. They are proud of the partnerships they develop with their customers and appreciate the opportunity to develop their customers’ visions and turn them into legacies of waterfront inclusivity for generations to come. For more information, contact us at 610-899-0286 or through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
Have You Visited BoardSafe’s Kayak Launch at Bowman’s Beach, Sanibel?
Photo credit Lisa Stout
As of this writing, it’s been a little more than a year since Hurricane Ian ravaged all of southwest Florida.
Ft. Myers Beach, Sanibel and Captiva, and Pine Island, suffered the hardest, leaving entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble. Coverage by ABC News shared images depicting the level of damage some of the hardest-hit areas experienced from Hurricane Ian before and after. As a result of the Category 4 winds and menacing storm surge on Sept. 28, 2022, many areas were left unrecognizable in the wake of the storm.
The popularity of Sanibel Island
Sanibel Island is a tourist’s dream. It’s roughly 15 miles long and 5 miles across at its widest. Its small size holds a rich and intriguing history, abundant flora and fauna, and stretches of white, sandy beaches known for shelling. Sanibel Island is home to the world-famous J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, with over 6,000 acres of mangrove jungles and wetlands encompassing a large portion of the island, just perfect for kayaking. The refuge is home to dozens of endangered species, allowing visitors to see manatees, alligators, raccoons, tropical birds, and foliage by biking, paddleboarding, and kayaking through its trails. Sanibel Island was a vacationer’s paradise pre-hurricane, and through the efforts of many, will be shining again soon.
Sanibel Island boasts an east-west orientation and is the perfect locale to experience breathtaking sunrises, sunsets, and Gulf Coast tides that bring in over 250 types of shells to its beaches. The beautiful blue-green waters that surround the island offer some of the finest fishing in the world.
Sanibel Island one year after Hurricane Ian
The recovery process has been a struggle for many locals but Southwest Florida continues to rally. Sanibel’s economy, which focuses mainly on tourism, was brought to a screeching halt after the hurricane. Its lush environment was decimated. Many of its hotels and resorts were destroyed and its beaches were almost unrecognizable. In fact, the causeway that connects the island to the mainland was completely cut off after the storm.
Sanibel’s recovery
Sanibel is home to about 6,300 residents and the causeway is their lifeline. The Florida governor reported that 100 crews worked around the clock to repair the causeway, which includes three separate bridges. Its workers used 8,200 loads of fill, 2,400 loads of rock, and 4,000 tons of asphalt to build a temporary roadway to access the island.
Thousands of structures in the community were reduced to rubble, trees and vegetation were wiped out, and power lines were downed. Much of the furniture and appliances in homes were destroyed and unusable, creating piles of trash on the roads to be taken to landfills.
Looking forward to the future is what’s keeping the people of Sanibel, their city, and its businesses going. While the aftermath of the hurricane was devastating, the City of Sanibel will fully reopen and be better and stronger than before. People are committed.
WGCU television took a unique look at how Sanibel Island fared during and after Hurricane Ian. Its hosts, Sandra Viktorova and Bryant Monteilh, along with the entire WGCU news team, prepared an anniversary special showcasing efforts to build a stronger and more spirited Southwest Florida and Sanibel Island. You can watch it here:
After Ian: WGCU Hurricane Ian Anniversary Special | WGCU News
Florida 24 Network investigative reporter Katie Lagrone and photojournalist Matthew Apthorp also took to the streets and returned to Sanibel Island for the first time since their eye-opening visit one year ago. They received a firsthand view of the pain that remains—and the progress that’s slowly offering hope to its people. Their island tour can be viewed here: Sanibel Island: One Year after Hurricane Ian
Bowman’s Beach recovery
Part of Sanibel’s recovery is to continue with its initial plan to offer inclusive paddling opportunities to its visitors at Bowman’s Beach. Prior to the hurricane, the city had planned to install a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch at Bowman’s Beach Park through their Kayak Launch Replacement Project. The project was put on hold after the storm but their vision was quickly brought back to life as part of Sanibel’s recovery. The beach, located at 1700 Bowman’s Beach Road, was closed to kayakers on June 19, 2023, while the beach park and restroom facilities remained open to swimmers and shellers. It now hosts an all-inclusive kayak launch providing accessibility for all.
Photo credit Lisa Stout
The City of Sanibel contracted with Infinite Construction, LLC, to put in the infrastructure for the launch site. Their plan was to replace the existing structure with a new aluminum floating dock system and kayak launch designed, engineered, and manufactured by BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA. Its ADA-compliant gangway and kayak launch with adaptive features was funded by the Lee County Tourist Development Council and The City of Sanibel. The beach and public facility, which are owned by Lee County, have been maintained and operated for a long time by Lee County Parks & Recreation, even though they’re located within the city limits of Sanibel. Several years ago, city and county leaders approved an inter-local agreement turning the operation and maintenance over to the city; however, the county still maintains ownership of the property.
Bowman’s Beach Park is isolated and picturesque and probably one of the most popular beaches on Sanibel Island. Great shelling and amenities make it worth the five-minute hike from the parking area to the beach. Adventurous beachcombers are able to walk for several miles on unobstructed white sand beaches covered in shells.
What you should know about Bowman’s Beach Park
The amenities at the beach park include beach access, charcoal grills, fishing, fitness stations, hiking trails, paddlecraft landing and launch, a pavilion, a playground, restrooms, and showers. There is a parking fee of $5 per hour.
Bowman’s Beach is one of the best locations for kayaking on Sanibel Island. The recently installed BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch makes getting in and out of kayaks and onto the water easily accessible for everyone. You can actually access the gulf from this launch site or stay in the calm bays and mangrove areas for a scenic paddle.
Photo credit Lisa Stout
With tourism, ecology, and the lush environment the main draws to Sanibel, the industry is finding ways to draw its visitors back to the island. Lighthouse Beach Park, which is the home of the historic and famous Sanibel Lighthouse, provides a guiding light on the island and is a symbol of lasting stability. It shows hope and security, letting crews know a safe place is nearby. As a result of storm damage, the Lighthouse remained unlit for the first 5 months after the storm. Lighthouse Beach Park was the last of the island's public beaches to reopen; its restoration gave people hope for what was to come for the rest of the island. Is it perfect? No, but it’s still paradise and ready for its tourists, beach lovers, shell hunters, and kayakers to return!
The famous Sanibel Island Inn has worked hard to restore its terrific beachfront property from the ravages of Hurricane Ian. They are part of a rebounding community of businesses, all working together to bring Sanibel Island back to its former glory. To find out what businesses are open, you can contact them directly or click on this link because new businesses are reopening to their guests every day.
What businesses are open on Sanibel Island?
So, if you enjoy kayaking, and are looking for a way to support Sanibel in their rebirth, we welcome you to check out the new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch on Sanibel Island at Bowman's Beach.
BoardSafe Docks understands the benefits and impact their floating dock systems offer to communities and park systems. They understand that accessibility is not one-size-fits-all. Their inclusive launch is fitted for kayaks and canoes and gets everyone in the water safely and easily. They understand paddlers want close-to-home recreation; safe, easy, and inclusive access to the water; and the ability to connect with surrounding nature.
To discuss your project and create a water entry site that offers safe and easy access with inclusive and adaptive features, contact us at 610-899-0286 or through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
Accessibility Is Not One-Size-Fits-All—Lake Chaminwood’s Story
The BoardSafe kayak launch at Lake Chaminwood opened this fall 2023. Matt Novander, the Forest Preserve's chief landscape architect, oversaw the project. He mentioned that the launch's design caters to different abilities. The Forest Preserve may use the same design for future launches. Novander says, "We had lake access but needed access for people with disabilities. We reached out to some companies, researched ways to get people to the water, & called BoardSafe and selected their products."
Lake Chaminwood is situated on Shepley Road, west of Interstate 55. The preserve is open from 6 a.m. to sunset until October, and from 8 a.m. to sunset from November to March. The new launch is anticipated to improve the experience of paddlers visiting the preserve, especially those with mobility issues.
Lake Chaminwood Preserve in Channahon recently unveiled an accessible kayak and canoe launch this fall. The launch is part of a larger improvement project for the preserve, which includes an expanded parking area and a new entrance completed earlier this summer. The launch is equipped with features to assist paddlers with mobility issues.
The project received partial funding from an $80,000 Illinois Department of Natural Resources Boat Access Grant. Novander emphasized the importance of such grants in supporting the project's completion.
BoardSafe Improves Economic Benefits for Communities in East Tennessee
A new project slated for East Tennessee was announced at the annual Legacy Parks Luncheon on Friday, September 29, 2023. A 20-mile river trail will be created on the French Broad River starting at Seven Islands State Birding Park and ending in Downtown Knoxville. Three accessible BoardSafe Docks kayak launches are already designed and approved and will be installed along the water trail beginning at Seven Islands, heading downriver to Cruze Landing and Asbury Landing, which will create access and exit points with 5- to 7-mile intervals. Future launches will be designed and developed until the 20-mile stretch is fully accessible and reaches downtown Knoxville. These access points will create a truly adaptive and complete paddling experience for all. The accessible water trail will be the first of its kind in the state, and stakeholders are hoping it will be the first of many.
“This project is really a partnership of TVA, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Legacy Parks, Tennessee State Parks, City of Knoxville, and Knox County. There are a lot of stakeholders involved and the planning takes a little bit of time. Everybody sort of shares the value of getting people on the river. So, it’s a great project,” said Carol Evans, Executive Director of the Legacy Parks Foundation.
Hospitality and heritage bring hundreds of thousands of tourists to the Tennessee River and its tributaries each summer. People are attracted to the region for its different activities: biking, paddling, camping, hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying its history. As a result of this foundation’s efforts, visitors hindered by age, experience, mobility, or disability will be able to paddle down the river. The Legacy Parks Foundation ensures all people, including those with physical disabilities, are welcome to participate and have access to East Tennessee’s river and recreational sites. Legacy Park's creative plan will offer accessibility to all who visit the water trails and their surrounding parks. Accessible water trails will improve the quality of life for residents and those who visit the great state of Tennessee.
Paddling events build inclusive communities and improve quality of life
As the corridor strives to better accommodate all visitors, many local leaders have recognized the popularity of paddling and the need to provide safe and convenient access into and out of the water. BoardSafe Docks manufactures a well-known inclusive adaptive kayak launch that allows people in wheelchairs to safely transition into their kayak and out on the water. The launch system has been designed and engineered with specific adaptive features to improve the paddling experience for all users and ensure that family and friends can paddle together.
According to a report published by Statista Research Department, from 2010–2021, kayaking participation in the United States grew by 87.3 percent. Nearly 18.6 million Americans went kayaking at least once in 2021.
Until recently, no one fully understood the economic benefits of investing in and improving water access sites. However, we are now learning more about the economic, recreational, and environmental impacts.
The Outdoor Recreation Economy Report identifies outdoor recreation as one of our nation's largest economic sectors. According to this report, outdoor recreation generates $887 billion in consumer spending annually, 7.6 million American jobs, $65.3 billion in federal tax revenue, and $59.2 billion in state and local tax revenue.
Benefits of creating more access points to our rivers
The planning and creation of water access points accessible to all provide a wide range of benefits to local communities. Why? Because people of all abilities are hooked on paddle sports. When you step into a kayak and take those first few paddle strokes, nature surrounds you. It’s easy to understand how nature’s draw pulls people to the water.
Paddling and kayak fishing have become everyone’s favorite hobbies and sought-after forms of outdoor recreation. Kayaking is an inclusive activity that offers adaptive paddlers the opportunity to be out on the water like everyone else.
The economic impact of parks and rivers
Parks and rivers have become powerful economic drivers for communities. Policymakers, elected officials, and parks and recreation professionals have noticed and understand how investments made in local and regional parks are improving the standard of living for their communities. The positive impact of parks on Tennessee’s economy is shown in a research study completed by the National Recreation and Parks Association.
Inclusive waterways encourage economic renewal
Three out of every four Americans participate in outdoor recreation each year, and paddlesports are among the fastest-growing segments of the industry. Legacy Parks’ planning for accessible recreation is positively impacting visitation along East Tennessee’s waterways, bringing along opportunities for economic renewal and growth.
Tourism and paddling on the Tennessee River
Tennessee is one of the top travel destinations in the U.S. because of its tremendous assets; scenic beauty, diverse cities and small towns, world-class attractions, music, culture, and history. A report prepared by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development indicates that in 2021, Tennessee experienced record levels of tourism growth.
Tennessee Tourism Outperforms the Nation With Record $24 Billion in Domestic Travel Spending in 2021 Key information for the Department of Tourism can be broken down by county and viewed here: Interactive Data | Tennessee Vacation Industry.
Accessible to all BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launches on the French Broad River
There is a host of benefits that come from launching more paddling options in our communities. Increases in property values, tourism, and recreation-related spending are just a few ways that inclusive water trails positively affect communities and the local economy. Paddling also encourages good stewardship of parks, natural resources, and riverside land. Enjoyment and protection of our waterways are valuable investments for our communities and their future, making East Tennessee a great place to live, work, and visit.
Whether paddling, tubing, casting a line, or sitting along the riverbanks watching the birds, a day on the river is good for everyone and is welcoming and life-changing when the trails offer accessibility. Supporting Legacy Parks’ efforts helps preserve the past, enrich the present, and provide a precious gift for future generations to enjoy. It allows the Legacy Parks Foundation to continue to make an impact by providing accessibility to all. To learn more about The Legacy Parks Foundation, their projects, and what they’ve contributed to Knox County and surrounding communities, visit their website: About Us - Legacy Parks Foundation.
There are many ways to support Legacy Parks in their efforts to preserve natural resources and connect communities in East Tennessee. To become a friend and talk about planned giving or providing gifts of land or trail easements, click here: How to Help - Legacy Parks Foundation.
BoardSafe Docks understands the impact accessible water trails offer to their users and their communities. To discuss your project’s vision and learn more about BoardSafe Docks, our Adaptive Kayak Launch and Fishing Pier, its durable construction, and the long-term value it will bring to your community, please call us at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.