Traverse City’s Discovery Pier Expands Universal Water Access with BoardSafe Accessible Gangway and Kayak Launch
Discovery Pier in Traverse City, Michigan, is opening new doors to the water and ensuring that people of all ages, needs, and abilities can experience the joy, education, and recreation offered by the Great Lakes.
BoardSafeDocks of Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, is proud to partner with Discovery Pier to support its mission of inclusive access through the installation of a BoardSafe Accessible Gangway and a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch. These new features connect visitors safely and comfortably to accessible fishing docks and on-the-water experiences, reinforcing Discovery Pier’s commitment to welcoming everyone.
The improvements build on Discovery Pier’s existing barrier-free amenities, including accessible parking, sidewalks, and restrooms. Together, these thoughtfully designed features create a seamless experience, from arrival to the water’s edge, so visitors can focus on learning, exploring, and having fun paddling on the water
“We believe that access to our Great Lakes should be available to everyone,” shared Discovery Pier leadership. “There’s a lot of freshwater fun to be discovered on the pier and explored on the water!”
A Community Effort with Lasting Impact
With Phases 2 of the site improvements now complete, Discovery Pier celebrated the many partners who made this vision a reality. Support from legislators, donors, and community organizations played a vital role, including the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, MSU Federal Credit Union, The Oleson Foundation, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and many others dedicated to expanding inclusive outdoor access.
These investments are already making a difference by drawing families, educators, anglers, paddlers, and visitors with disabilities to the waterfront for shared experiences that are both educational and recreational.
Access That Inspires Discovery
The addition of the accessible gangway and adaptive kayak launch ensures Discovery Pier is more than a destination; it’s a place where universal access meets environmental education and outdoor adventure. As more visitors are welcomed to the water, the pier continues to serve as a model for how inclusive design strengthens communities and deepens connections to natural resources.
Visitors are encouraged to stop by Discovery Pier and experience everything it has to offer for a memorable, accessible day on the water.
To learn more about accessible waterfront solutions, visit BoardSafeDocks.com or give us a call at 610-899-0286.