Undine Barge Club, Boathouse Row, Chooses BoardSafe Dock
Undine Barge Club, a rowing club on prestigious Boathouse Row in Philadelphia, recently upgraded its dock system with a BoardSafe Rowing Dock. The club operates year-round with a racing team, summer racing programs, and a masters rowing club.
The rowing club is located at #13 Boathouse Row in the historic row of boat houses along the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The club was founded in 1856.
Work Scope and Specifications
The following components were installed:
- One (1) 12-foot by 60-foot low-profile floating dock
- Supplied in Six (6) 6-foot by 20-foot dock sections
- Aluminum frames
- Composite decking
- Plastic encapsulated floats
- Corner bumpers
- Rub rail
- Stainless steel fasteners
- One (1) 12-foot by 8-foot diverter dock
- One (1) 6-foot by 20-foot connector dock
- One (1) hinged, mounting angle (for attachment between gangway and connector dock)
- Dock-to-dock mounting kits
- The freeboard along the 60-foot, river side of the dock is approximately 4.5 to 5.0 inches.
BoardSafe’s aluminum floating rowing docks are the highest-quality rowing docks available. Engineered for performance, our rowing docks for this project have low-profile plastic-encapsulated foam floats with a 4.5”-5″ freeboard, and feature the same commercial quality as our floating docks.
To learn more about BoardSafe’s unique capabilities when designing rowing centers, watch one of our project videos here:
Texas Rowing Center - the World Class Rowing Center Built by BoardSafe Docks
Customers interested in replacing or constructing rowing docks are encouraged to consult with our Rowing Dock specialists. Contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com, or call 610–899-0286 and allow us to evaluate your project.
Knox Lake BoardSafe Fishing Pier Offers Accessibility to All
The Ohio Division of Natural Resources operates Knox Lake State Park, located at 17811 Buena Vista Dr, Fredericktown, OH 43019. This 756-acre wildlife area is in central Ohio, about 1½ miles northeast of Fredericktown. The lake now offers a BoardSafe Accessible Fishing Pier, accessible to all, and even accommodates persons in wheelchairs.
The Division of Wildlife maintains the amenities at the lake and fishing is one of its most popular recreational activities. Knox Lake has one of the best largemouth bass fisheries in the state and is heavily targeted for large trophy flathead catfish. Other fishing opportunities include black and white crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and yellow perch.
History of the Lake
Knox Lake was built by the ODNR Division of Wildlife in 1954. Its purpose was primarily for recreation. After nearly 60 years of service, the Knox Lake Dam required repair for the safety of its visitors.
In June 2020, the Division of Wildlife invested significant resources to repair, renovate, and replace parts of the dam, spillway, and main boat access. Improvements also allow them to control lake levels and prevent erosion. Public safety was the primary goal of this project, and the improvements to its fishing areas have made it a popular place to visit and a favorite fishing destination for decades to come.
Specifications of the BoardSafe Accessible Fishing Pier
- one (1) 6’ wide x 20’ long aluminum gangway with dual-sided handrail and supplemental flotation
- one (1) Bulkhead Hinge Connection Kit
- two (2) 6’2” wide x 20’ long floating docks
- two (2) 8’2” wide x 20’ long floating docks
- three (3) transition strips connecting docks
- two (2) External Elongated Piling Guides
- fishing handrail around the perimeter of (2) 8’2” wide docks
Adaptive fishing piers and aluminum floating docks are unique because they are engineered and constructed with the adaptive athlete in mind, using ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features. Whether you wish to enjoy a lakeside breeze or some exciting fishing, BoardSafe’s accessible aluminum fishing piers and floating docks provide accessibility for all.
The ADA features include a 1:12-slope aluminum gangway, as well as low-rise thresholds. The adaptive fishing piers, floating docks, and gangways have a 36″ continuous handrail along the perimeter, protective toe kick for wheelchair safety, and are consistent with ADA requirements. BoardSafe engineers its aluminum floating docks for adaptive fishing piers to provide maximum stability on the water.
To find out more about Adaptive Fishing Piers and installations, check out our website at BoardSafeDocks.com, or give us a call at 610–899-0286. Also, visit ADA Boat Launch, Floating Dock, and Fishing Pier.
BoardSafe Docks Sponsors the 2024 SOBA Symposium
The States Organization for Boating Access (SOBA) invites you to join them August 26th - 29th in Wilmington, North Carolina, for the 2024 Education & Training Symposium. Online registration is now open!
SOBA is the largest gathering of professionals and affiliate organizations engaged in improving and expanding public recreational boating access facilities throughout the United States.
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is this year’s host and BoardSafe Docks is recognized as the Platinum Sponsor for the third consecutive year.
It’s less than two weeks away from the symposium that will connect you with more than 200 state boating officials, consultants, engineering firms, manufacturers, suppliers, publishers, and other businesspersons invested in boating access.
SOBA is the place to learn about the latest materials, designs, and construction techniques for boating access and water recreation. The event offers an exclusive opportunity to learn from the experts in public boating and non-motorized boating access. To learn more about this event and register, click on the link below:
Education & Training Symposium - States Organization for Boating Access
Waddington NY Pioneers Accessibility with BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch
Waddington, New York, has significantly promoted equity and accessibility by installing a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch at the Whitaker Park Boat Launch on the St. Lawrence River. This initiative reflects the town's commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy the beauty and recreational opportunities on the St. Lawrence River.
A Vision Inspired by a Neighboring Community
Waddington’s journey towards installing an accessible kayak launch began in 2022 after witnessing a similar project in nearby Canton, NY. Canton had installed a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, which caught the attention of Waddington's community leaders. Inspired by the positive impact it had on accessibility, Waddington set out on its own mission to bring a similar launch to its residents and community.
Collaboration and Planning
Over the course of two years, Waddington worked closely with BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA, a company specializing in adaptive and accessible outdoor recreation products. BoardSafe assisted with the permit applications and design concepts for three potential locations within the town. After careful consideration and planning, Whitaker Park was chosen as the ideal site for their first new accessible kayak launch.
In 2024, Waddington received the necessary funding to move forward with the project. The town contracted with BoardSafe to manufacture and install the kayak launch, which features a 16-foot-long gangway and kayak chute, and an 8-by-16-foot floating dock equipped with a 16-foot BoardSafe Clip-A-Launch. The installation is supported by two precast concrete blocks, supplied by BoardSafe, that serve as the bulkhead foundation.
Community Effort and Installation
The installation of the kayak launch in late June was a true community effort, with town employees Chris, Jeff, Nate, and Caleb working alongside BoardSafe to set the blocks and complete the installation. Their dedication and teamwork ensured that the project was completed efficiently and to the highest standards.
Enhancing Outdoor Access
The new adaptive kayak launch at Whitaker Park not only opens up the St. Lawrence River to individuals with physical disabilities, it also reinforces Waddington's reputation as a premier destination for outdoor recreation. The park is already well-known for its world-class smallmouth bass fishing and is the site of the BassMaster Elite tournament, which will take place from August 15–18, 2024.
By investing in this accessible infrastructure, Waddington is making a powerful statement about the importance of inclusivity and the right of all people to enjoy the natural environment. The town's leaders, including Mayor Mike Zabrobelny, have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life, demonstrating a commitment to equity that will benefit the community for years to come.
A Model for Other Communities
Waddington's successful installation of their adaptive kayak launch serves as a model for other communities looking to enhance accessibility and promote outdoor activities for everyone. It provides nearby towns with a model and a vision to explore similar projects, and demonstrates what thoughtful planning, collaboration, and community involvement can have in creating more inclusive public spaces.
As the new kayak launch welcomes paddlers of all abilities, Waddington stands as a shining example of how small towns can lead the way in making the great outdoors accessible to all.
To learn more about BoardSafe Docks’ additional projects and capabilities, view our “About Us” video here:
BoardSafe Docks: Manufacturer of Marinas, Rowing Centers, Adaptive Launches, Gangways & Bridge
For more information about this project and others, or for a consultation, visit us at boardsafedocks.com or call 610-899-0286.
Monongahela River Wharf Offers Accessibility with BoardSafe Kayak Launch
Riverside Wharf Park, located in the small suburb of Brownsville and nestled along the Monongahela River, plays a key part in Brownsville’s community. The wharf is within walking distance from town and offers fishing, a public boat launch, and a relaxing place to read a book or watch activities on the water. Access to the waters of the Monongahela River was limited for many residents, especially those with physical disabilities before the borough’s partnership with BoardSafe Docks. Renowned for our commitment to accessibility, BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA, designed and manufactured Brownsville’s state-of-the-art adaptive kayak launch and accessible floating dock system. The dock now provides boating, paddling, and fishing access from Brownsville’s historic wharf. The dock fulfills a 10-year vision that Brownsville Borough had for providing accessible boating access to their wharf.
The Monongahela River played a significant role in Pittsburgh’s industrial and economic development, particularly during the “steel era.” As recent as 2013, “the Mon” was recognized as River of the Year for its scenic beauty, fishing spots, and boating opportunities. The river uniquely flows from south to north, and meets with the Allegheny River at its confluence to form the Ohio River in downtown Pittsburgh.
Brownsville’s new dock and kayak launch is more than just a piece of infrastructure—it symbolizes inclusivity and progress in the borough. Designed with various adaptive features, the kayak launch ensures that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy the freedom and joy of kayaking. The well-equipped site offers an ADA gangway that provides a gentle, easy pitch down to the water where people in wheelchairs can access the 100 feet of floating docks and the adaptive kayak launch. The accessible launch includes a stabilizing cradle for safe and easy access in and out of the kayak, an adaptive kit with a step-down bench, overhead grab bar, hand straps, and pull bars that make it easy for individuals to move from their wheelchair into their kayak.
Megan, a local resident who had been an avid kayaker before an accident left her with limited mobility, was one of the first to use the new kayak launch. As she paddled out onto the river for the first time in years, she felt a wave of emotions wash over her: freedom, empowerment, and a deep connection to nature. "It's incredible to be back on the water," she said with joy in her eyes. "This launch allows me to kayak again, and it’s something I really enjoy!"
BoardSafe expects the impact of the adaptive kayak launch to ripple through Brownsville just as it does in other communities. There is hope for schools and community groups to organize kayak outings, and for people of all ages and abilities to come together to enjoy paddling on the Monongahela. The borough hopes the launch area will become a hub of activity and foster new friendships in the community.
BoardSafe Docks' innovative design and commitment to accessibility garnered attention from Brownsville Borough and other nearby towns with the vision to explore similar projects. The success story unfolding along the Monongahela River inspires others looking to enhance riverfront communities.
Brownsville’s riverfront access is more than a facility—it’s a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a vision of inclusivity and accessibility. It demonstrates that when barriers are removed, everyone can share in the beauty and adventure of nature. As kayakers of all abilities glide across the river, the spirit of unity and progress that has built the launch will continue to flow through the town.
Scope of Work on the Monongahela River Wharf Project
The project included
- 100 feet of floating dock installed on the Monongahela River.
- a BoardSafe Clip-A-Launch and Adaptive Boarding Kit for kayakers with limited mobility.
- a 30-ft-long accessible gangway with a handrail.
- a 30-ft long support arm to temporarily support the dock until piles are installed.
BoardSafe fast-tracked the project timeline for the borough to have it installed in time for Brownsville’s RiverFest on July, 5th, 2024. BoardSafe’s expertise and experience with similar projects allowed us to design, draft, fabricate, and install the project in less than 3 weeks.
Key stakeholders involved in the project responsible for seeing it through to completion were Mike Walters of the Brownsville Borough and McMillen Engineering, who assisted with the DNR and Army Corps of Engineers permit applications. Kevin Jones and his remarkable team of installation experts from Blue Water Docks of Chattanooga, TN, installed the floating courtesy dock, gangway, and kayak launch.
BoardSafe Docks believes our products can improve lifestyles for communities that enjoy recreating on the water and those looking for accessible and adaptive recreation. BoardSafe understands the value true accessibility brings to communities. 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 nature, and encourages paddlers to be good stewards, caring for our natural resources.
BoardSafe values the partnerships we’ve developed and appreciates the opportunity to develop our customer’s visions and turn them into legacies of waterfront inclusivity for generations to come. Call us at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com and allow us to #ACCESS YOUR ADVENTURE!
Making the Erie Canal More Accessible Throughout New York State
A new effort among the New York Power Authority, New York State Canal Corporation, and Rochester Accessible Adventures, aims to guide communities in creating accessible facilities along the Erie Canal. Anita O’Brien, executive director of RAA, said her group will work with businesses and other entities who wish to make their locations more accessible and remove barriers for individuals with disabilities.
Julie Cataldo, who has cerebral palsy, uses a custom BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch in Fairport along the Erie Canal with help from her friend, Adrienne Allen, and Peter Abele, owner of the Erie Canal Boat Company in Fairport.
Read or listen to this special feature from NPR News station WXXI, Rochester, NY:
Making the Erie Canal more accessible throughout New York State | WXXI News