Monroe County, NY, is making strides in accessibility on the Black Creek at Churchville Park. County Executive Adam Bello announced at this week’s ribbon-cutting ceremony that the new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak and Canoe Launch will provide essential assistance for all individuals to comfortably access the water. BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch is specifically designed to provide universal access to paddlers of all abilities, including paddlers in wheelchairs and paddlers with mobility limitations.
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello announced, “In addition to connecting our community to nature, we want to make sure that our parks are accessible and can be used by as many of our residents as possible.”
The project, funded by the county’s $16.6 million park system investment, aims to enhance accessibility for residents with disabilities. Recognizing that 28% of Monroe County residents have a disability and 26% are over 60 years old, Monroe County is committed to making its parks accessible to everyone.
Read more here: ADA accessible kayak and canoe launch opens in Churchville Park.
BoardSafe Docks, designer, engineer, and manufacturer of accessible dock systems, understands the benefits these facilities bring to local communities like Churchville Park, including:
Personal Empowerment Providing access to previously unavailable activities improves individuals’ physical and mental well-being. As more people are looking for ways to stay healthy, paddling has become a popular activity to connect people to nature.
Inclusivity Enabling people of all abilities to engage in water activities promotes a more inclusive community and allows for people with lower body physical disabilities and limitations the ability to participate with family and friends.
Community Benefits Accessible kayak launches foster social interaction and shared experiences, enhancing community bonds.
Economic Impact Accessible water access points can attract visitors and boost local businesses. People who paddle locally will shop in local stores, eat in their restaurants, and stay overnight in their hotels.
Personal Empowerment Providing access to previously unavailable activities improves individuals’ physical and mental well-being, especially for those who may have been excluded in the past. Public recreation must be available for everyone.
Safety and Accessibility BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launches are designed with safety in mind, featuring ADA gangways, adaptive boarding benches, overhead grab bars, grab straps and pull bars, non-slip surfaces, and a kayak chute that keeps vessels stable and secure during entry and exit. The launch ensures a positive paddling experience for all.
For more information on BoardSafe’s products and services and how we can help you develop your waterfront into an accessible and inclusive water recreation spot for paddling, fishing, and boating, give us a call at 610-899-0286 or visit our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.