BoardSafe Docks Welcomes New Team Members
As BoardSafe Docks continues to create and improve recreational access points throughout the USA, we would like to welcome the following team members!
Welcome David Tihansky!
As Project Manager, Dave works closely with our manufacturing team to expedite project deadlines. He coordinates the shipping and delivery of our products with customers and the installation team, ensuring smooth installations.
Welcome Madeleine Rice!
Madeleine enhances our Business Development team by producing architectural drawings and photo-realistic renderings. These visuals help our customers envision how their products will look in their specific environments.
BoardSafe Creates Paddle Access to Chattahoochee River, GA
BoardSafe Docks stands out as the premier designer and manufacturer of the most structural and durable waterfront systems. Known for our expertise and innovative problem-solving, BoardSafe collaborates closely with clients to create customized solutions that meet site-specific needs. Rivers, lakes, and coastal environments can present unique accessibility needs, and BoardSafe Docks consistently delivers one-of-a-kind, long-lasting solutions to our customers.
When the Trust for Public Land (TPL), a national nonprofit dedicated to protecting public lands and enhancing outdoor access, launched the Chattahoochee RiverLands project in Georgia, they knew they needed a partner with specialized design capabilities. TPL approached BoardSafe Docks and brought them into two projects that required specialized design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation expertise. Their initiative, which aims at creating 100 miles of trails and parks along the Chattahoochee River, called for a robust, reliable solution to provide safe, accessible river access points across unique terrain.
Chattahoochee Hills Camp
BoardSafe was the perfect fit for this challenge. For the first installation at Chattahoochee Hills Camp, BoardSafe designed, engineered, manufactured, and delivered an 80-foot gangway, a floating dock, and an accessible kayak launch equipped with an adaptive kit. What set this project apart was the complex slope of the riverbank and the potential for flooding and strong currents. BoardSafe responded by designing a unique foundation system with a 28-foot support arm that connects to the floating dock, enabling the entire structure to rise and fall with the water level. They also reinforced the system with a piling mechanism at the top of the gangway to ensure stability, regardless of the fluctuating river conditions.
The piling system designed for the top of the gangway also helps keep the system in place should water levels rise.
The scope of work for the Chattahoochee Hills Riverland, located at 8661 Campbellton-Redwine Road, Chattahoochee Hills, GA, includes
- (1) 8x25-ft. Floating dock.
- (1) 6’10” x 8’6” Diverter dock.
- (1) 8’2” x 11’ Landing dock.
- (1) 16-ft. Left-Hand Clip-A-Launch kayak launch.
- (1) Adaptive Kit.
- (1) 80-ft. gangway.
- Bulkhead mounting angle.
- (2) Ramps: one bottom and one top of gangway.
- (1) 28-ft. stiff arm assembly and connecting hardware.
- Foundation connection bracket.
Standing Peachtree Park
The second Chattahoochee Riverlands location where TPL required BoardSafe’s expertise was for the launch system at Standing Peachtree Park. The park is located at 2630 Ridgewood Road NW, Atlanta, GA. This location also included an 80-ft. access gangway, floating dock, accessible kayak launch, adaptive kit, and a 28-ft. support arm that secures the launch to a concrete foundation along the river bank and very steep terrain.
The scope of work for Chattahoochee’s Standing Peachtree location includes
- (1) 8x25-ft. Floating dock.
- (1) 6’10” x 8’6” Diverter dock.
- (1) 8’2” x 11’ Landing dock.
- (1) 16-ft. Left-Hand Clip-A-Launch kayak launch.
- (1) Adaptive Kit.
- (1) 80-ft. gangway.
- Bulkhead mounting angle.
- (2) Ramps: one bottom and one top of gangway.
- (1) 28-ft. stiff arm assembly and connecting hardware.
Thanks to BoardSafe's structural expertise and innovative approach, TPL and the broader community gained durable, accessible waterfront solutions tailored to meet the unique challenges on the Chattahoochee River. When completed, the Chattahoochee RiverLands project will create accessible outdoor recreation destinations with 100 miles of parks, trails, and amenities stretching from Buford Dam to Chattahoochee Bend State Park. The Riverlands project will connect nearly 1 million nearby residents and visitors to the outdoors where they can kayak, swim, bicycle, picnic, walk, camp, and wheel along the scenic river.
Building a Legacy
Since 1972, TPL has protected more than 4 million acres of public land, created more than 5,364 parks, trails, schoolyards, and iconic outdoor places, raised $93 billion in public funding for parks and public lands, and connected nearly 9.4 million people to the outdoors. Their goal is for all of metro Atlanta to enjoy the benefits of recreating in the outdoors.
System Installation Completed by Blue Water Docks
BoardSafe Docks appreciates the partnership created with Kevin Jones and his installation team from Blue Water Docks in Chattanooga, TN. Kevin and his crew have completed several installations of BoardSafe’s product line and understand how BoardSafe’s systems come together. We are excited to work with this talented team that realizes the value our accessible products bring to communities. BoardSafe looks forward to building synergy with the Blue Water team, enabling us to expand our product line nationwide.
For more information about this project or the unique projects that BoardSafe designs, engineers, and manufacturers, call us at 610-899-0286 or visit BoardSafeDocks.com.
Utica NY Adds BoardSafe Kayak Launch for Utica Harbor Paddle Access
Another BoardSafe Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch project opened in September 2024 in Utica, New York.
This kayak launch provides paddlers of all abilities access to the Utica Harbor and the Mohawk River. The area has a rich history because it offers waterway access directly into the Erie Canal. Additionally, its strategic location provides commercial benefits as an important route between Albany and Syracuse. The specific area where the launch is located is part of a beautification plan to redevelop the waterfront for recreational opportunities, as well as future commercial shopping, dining, lodging, and other venues that will allow residents and tourists to enjoy the waterfront.
BoardSafe Docks appreciates Mohawk Valley Materials for selecting us to complete the dock portion of the project. Mohawk Valley Materials was hired by the City of Utica to help develop this part of the Utica Harbor for future use. Utica Mayor Michael Galime would like to see Utica Harbor finished with hotels, apartments, entertainment, and exercise facilities to attract residents and tourists to the waterfront. The project engineer was the Ramboll Group Architecture, Engineering, and Consulting.
BoardSafe Docks was responsible for designing, engineering, manufacturing, and installing the new universal access launch system. The project included a
- 60-ft.-long ADA gangway with universal access kayak chute.
- 10-ft. x 20-ft. cantilever deck that extends access over the seawall.
- (2) 8-ft. x 16-ft. aluminum welded floating docks that create a 16-ft. x16-ft. floating platform.
- (1) 16-ft.-long kayak launch saddle with adaptive boarding kit.
Customers looking to learn more about this project or discuss how BoardSafe Docks can help you with solutions for your water access project are encouraged to contact our design team at 610-899-0286. We at BoardSafe pride ourselves on helping you achieve your goals and bringing safe and accessible waterfront access to your community. BoardSafe custom solutions for your waterfront include
- Floating Docks Systems with Universal Access.
- Adaptive Kayak Launches.
- Accessible Fishing Piers.
- ADA-Compliant Gangways.
- Pedestrian Bridges.
- Rowing Center Docks.
Watch the Utica Harbor Project Video here:
Utica, NY Adaptive Kayak Launch on Utica Harbor and the Mohawk River
Ribbon Cutting Recognizes Community Impact of BoardSafe Kayak Launch
During a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony, representatives from the Village of Union Springs, the Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway, and the Cayuga County Department of Planning & Economic Development celebrated the installation of a new kayak launch on Cayuga Lake. The shared enthusiasm at the event highlighted the success of this collaborative effort.
The BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch, located in Frontenac Park at 26 Chapel Street, Union Springs, offers universal access for anyone wishing to enjoy the lake. Funded through the New York State Department of State’s Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) under Title 11 of the Environmental Protection Fund, the launch significantly improves accessibility for both residents and visitors.
New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley remarked, “The completion of Phase Two of the Cayuga Lake Blueway Trail is a major step forward in providing inclusive access to the waterfront for people of all ages and abilities. This new amenity will offer both locals and tourists an exciting way to experience Cayuga Lake.”
The installation of the kayak launch marks a significant milestone in enhancing accessibility for all residents and visitors. As the premier launch site for boats and paddle crafts on Cayuga Lake, Frontenac Park now enables individuals of all abilities to explore the lake’s recreational opportunities.
This BoardSafe Kayak Launch is one of the few ADA-compliant facilities along the 87 miles of Blueway Trails surrounding the lake, setting a new standard for inclusivity for the region.
Sue Poelvoorde, Executive Director of the Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway, added, “We are thrilled to add this state-of-the-art, inclusive facility to the Blueway Trail. The Village of Union Springs recognizes the importance of being a waterfront community and is building resources that encourage engagement with our beautiful lake.”
Kari Terwilliger, Director of the Cayuga County Department of Planning & Economic Development, emphasized, “The Village of Union Springs has fully embraced its role as a dynamic waterfront community. This new amenity will provide meaningful opportunities for both residents and visitors to connect with Cayuga Lake, and I look forward to seeing its positive impact on our community.”
The ceremony underscored Cayuga County’s ongoing commitment to creating accessible recreational facilities for all. Watch more about the ribbon-cutting and Cayuga’s Launch here:
Frontenac Park Adaptive Kayak Launch Makes Paddling Accessible in Union Springs, NY
Customers who choose BoardSafe Docks experience unmatched convenience and inclusivity with the BoardSafe Kayak Launch. Designed for universal access, this launch offers easy, stable entry for paddlers of all abilities, ensuring a seamless experience on the water. Ideal for parks, marinas, and waterfronts, BoardSafe Docks enhance access to any kayaking adventure. To learn more about how we can meet your needs, call us at 610-899-0286 or visit us online at BoardSafeDocks.com.
PFBC ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR BOATING FACILITY GRANT PROGRAM
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is excited to offer the next round of Boating Facility Grants to help communities capitalize on the surge in new boating activity.
A growing number of communities realize the positive social and economic impacts of having convenient boating access along their local waterways.
The Boating Facility Grant program provides grants for planning, acquisition, development, expansion, and rehabilitation of public boating facilities located on the waters of the Commonwealth. The PFBC encourages townships, boroughs, and municipal and county governments to apply. Nonprofit groups (501c3) including land trusts, conservancies, and watershed associations are also eligible to apply. Private businesses and service clubs are not eligible for direct funding but are encouraged to partner with their local county or municipality.
“Across Pennsylvania, momentum continues to grow around outdoor recreation as a whole, and the enthusiasm we’re seeing for recreational boating is incredible,” said Tim Schaeffer, PFBC Executive Director. “Participation in paddlesports, especially kayaking, has surged, and many communities are eager to accommodate families and individuals by adding or improving safe and convenient public access to the water. Funds awarded through this grant program can help communities develop projects, particularly projects that are accessible for all, to improve existing access areas or develop something new to serve local residents and attract recreational boaters to their communities.”
Applicants can seek grants for site acquisition, development, expansion, prevention of the spread of aquatic invasive species, and rehabilitation of recreational boat access facilities. Eligible construction projects may include, boat ramps, courtesy floats, restrooms, access roads, parking areas, and signs. Funds may also enhance the facility’s ADA compliance or add adaptive elements to the access site. Applicants are encouraged to keep accessibility for all in mind when developing their applications.
Funding requests require a 50% match. For the 2025 round of grants, the PFBC will accept applications from anywhere in the Commonwealth.
The deadline for applications is November 30, 2024.
For more information about the Boating Facility Grant Program and application form, visit the PFBC’s website at fishandboat.com/Transact/Grants/Pages/BoatingFacilityGrantProgram.aspx.
BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch Helps More People Access Lake Chillisquaque
The Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association and Montour Area Recreation Commission collaboratively installed a new BoardSafe adaptive kayak launch at Montour Preserve's Lake Chillisquaque on Saturday, August 3, 2024.
The launch was made possible thanks to a grant from the Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds and funding from the Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership effort via the 1994 Charles B. Degenstein Foundation.
“Adaptive kayak launches allow people who may have physical limitations or emotional fears to access the lake by using a special chute and bench system that cradles a kayak or canoe and makes it much easier to get in and out,” said Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky. “This launch will allow people to engage with our resources in ways they couldn't before. To my knowledge, this is the only adaptive launch within an 80- to 90-mile radius of this area. We are excited to offer programs using this system to inspire more people to connect with our aquatic ecosystem.”
Read the rest of the article here.
We’re heading back to the NRPA Conference 2024. Are you?
The NRPA Conference is taking place October 8 - October 10 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA. This event is the largest annual gathering of park and recreation professionals in one place, and an excellent opportunity to showcase, network, and learn about products and services in the field of recreation.
Come see BoardSafe Docks in the Exhibit Hall in Booth #2642!
BoardSafe’s kayak launch is designed for universal access and offers great stability with adaptive features. It improves the kayaking experience for paddlers of all abilities. The launch system is designed to accommodate both kayaks and canoes and is a perfect addition to parks, marinas, and waterfronts looking to improve accessibility.
For those looking to enhance their kayaking adventure with a safer, stable, and easy launch system, please stop by booth #2642. Scott and Dave from BoardSafe Docks would love to share information about BoardSafe’s product line and show you the features of an adaptive kayak launch. It’s not too late to register for the NRPA 2024 Annual Conference. We hope to see you there!
#NRPA2024 #WhereYouBelong #UniversalAccess #AccessibleSolutions
We're Counting Down Until #ASLA2024 in D.C.! Will you be there?
BoardSafe Docks is attending the ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture October 6th – 9th in Washington, DC.
The ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture is the largest annual gathering of landscape architecture and allied professionals, all coming together to learn, connect, share knowledge, gain inspiration, and bring value to their practice. The conference offers sessions, professional development, networking opportunities, and a world-class EXPO featuring over 275 vendors showcasing cutting-edge products and services.
Come see BoardSafe Docks in Booth #3757
BoardSafe’s kayak launch is designed for universal access and offers great stability with adaptive features. It improves the kayaking experience for paddlers of all abilities. The launch system is designed to accommodate both kayaks and canoes and is a perfect addition to parks, marinas, and waterfronts looking to improve accessibility.
For those looking to enhance their kayaking adventure with a safer, stable, and easy to launch system, please stop by booth #3757 in the exhibit hall. Tom Warchol and Kelly Beals from BoardSafe Docks would love to share information about BoardSafe’s product line and demonstrate the features of an adaptive kayak launch in person. It’s not too late to register at the ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture. We hope to connect with you there!
#ASLA2024 #BoardSafeDocks #UniversalAccess #AccessibleSolutions
BoardSafe Docks Had a Busy Summer Season!
While many of you were enjoying spring and summer paddling excursions, BoardSafe Docks was busy designing, engineering, and manufacturing more universal access kayak launches for all paddlers to enjoy.
BoardSafe’s kayak launch is designed for easy access, great stability, and adaptive features for those who need them. The launch is well-known for providing a seamless experience for paddlers of all abilities. BoardSafe’s launch system is designed to accommodate both kayaks and canoes and is a perfect addition to parks, marinas, and waterfronts where accessibility needs improvement. For those looking to enhance their kayaking adventure with a safer, stable, and easy launch system, try out a BoardSafe Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch near you!
We’ve updated our map in the link below to assist you with finding a BoardSafe Kayak Launch location near you. We always recommend checking in with park offices to determine the exact location of our universally designed system.
We apologize if one of our launch systems near you has been overlooked as we try to keep our map up-to-date. Please contact us through our website if you notice that a launch system near you is missing from our map. Happy Paddling!
BoardSafe Docks Adaptive Launch Map