Spring is Calling...Call BoardSafeDocks
Spring is calling, and it’s time to get people back outside.
As parks, trails, and greenways come alive with warmer temperatures and longer days, access to the outdoors matters more than ever. That’s where BoardSafe Docks comes in. As an industry leader in accessible outdoor products and services, BoardSafe helps communities remove barriers and open the door to nature for everyone.
From beautifully designed pedestrian bridges, like the one shown here, to accessible kayak launches, fishing piers, and floating boat docks, BoardSafe’s solutions connect people to the outdoors in meaningful ways. Whether it’s crossing a quiet stream, exploring a riverside trail, or simply enjoying a scenic overlook, these structures enable individuals of all abilities to experience the benefits of being outdoors.
This spring, invest in infrastructure that invites everyone in. Partner with BoardSafe Docks and create spaces where communities can gather, explore, and thrive, because the outdoors should be for all!
For more information on our accessible solutions, contact BoardSafeDocks at 610-899-0286.
Hudson Crossing Park Welcomes BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch
Hudson Crossing Park in Schuylerville, NY, is expanding access to the water with a new BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch, helping ensure that more people of all abilities can enjoy time on the water.
Set along the scenic Hudson River and centered around Champlain Canal Lock 5 Island, Hudson Crossing Park offers a one-of-a-kind blend of recreation and education. Visitors can also explore over two miles of nature trails, relax at picnic areas, fish, birdwatch, or enjoy the children’s play garden, all with beautiful waterfront views.
BoardSafe Docks designed this accessible kayak launch to seamlessly connect to the park’s existing dock, providing a thoughtful and efficient solution that enhances access without disrupting the current setting.
This project was made possible through the power of partnership and community support, including a $24,999 Quality of Life Grant from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, a $7,500 Trail Grant from Saratoga County, $15,000 from AARP, and generous contributions from local donors.
Curious paddlers who wish to learn more about the BoardSafe launch and its inclusive features are invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, April 28th, at 11 AM at Lock C5. All are welcome to attend and celebrate this important step toward greater accessibility and inclusion.
The park is planning several inclusive and guided paddling events in the near future, beginning on Tuesday, May 19th, and monthly thereafter. Paddlers of all abilities are welcome to attend and try the accessible launch, offering a safe, stable entry into the water. Pre-registration is required here: https://www.hudsoncrossingpark.org/on-the-canals-excursions
Interested in improving water access at your site? BoardSafe Docks specializes in creating safe, accessible solutions for boating, fishing, and paddling. Learn more at BoardSafeDocks.com or call 610-899-0286.
BoardSafe Docks Congratulates Bassmaster Winner, Dylan Nutt
BoardSafeDocks congratulates Dylan Nutt, winner of the 2026 Bassmaster Classic in Knoxville, TN. His three-day total weight of 66 pounds, 13 ounces, won Nutt the iconic trophy.
Photos by J. Blackburn / Bill Dance Signature Lakes Facebook Page
Photos by J. Blackburn / Bill Dance Signature Lakes Facebook PageParticipants note this year’s tournament was one of the best they’ve experienced. Knoxville’s atmosphere was reportedly amazing, and its vibe and exposure packed the arena with a high-energy crowd to recognize Nutt’s win and support the anglers in what is known as the “SuperBowl of Fishing.”
BoardSafeDocks was pleased to be able to provide the starting gangways and courtesy boat docks utilized by the anglers at the Governor Ned McWherter, Riverside Landing Park in Knoxville, which was the official launch site for the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
Contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 for more information on making your water access entry points accessible to all for boating, kayaking, and fishing.
BoardSafeDocks and HivePaddleSports Celebrate Tennessee's Outdoors
BoardSafeDocks and HivePaddleSports were proud to join the second annual Outdoors Day on the Hill, hosted by the Tennessee Outdoor Partnership (TOP) on March 24 in Nashville, TN.
With more than 650 members of the General Assembly and the public in attendance, the day brought together the people and organizations shaping the future of outdoor recreation across Tennessee.
Watch video here: Celebrating the 2026 Outdoors Day on the Hill
BoardSafe and Hive are honored to partner with leaders across the state to deliver recreational infrastructure, from floating docks and fishing piers to accessible kayak launches and kayak rental kiosks that connect communities to Tennessee’s incredible lakes, rivers, and streams.
These investments do more than create great experiences outdoors; they prove to
✔️ Drive economic growth
✔️ Enhance quality of life in parks and communities
✔️ Inspire stewardship of natural resources
The impact is real. Tennessee’s outdoor industry generated $15.6 billion in 2024 and supports over 114,000 jobs, ranking #1 in the Southeast and #2 in the nation for 10-year GDP growth in the outdoor recreation sector.
A big thank you to Tennessee Outdoor Partnership (TOP), along with state agencies and partners like Trust for Public Land and The Nature Conservancy in Tennessee, for making this event possible and continuing to move outdoor access forward.
Outdoor recreation isn’t just fun—it’s fundamental to Tennessee’s future.
Events like this allow us to showcase our designs, engineering, and waterfront infrastructure that connects Tennesseans and their visitors to the water for endless adventures in boating, fishing, and kayaking. Thanks again, Tennessee Outdoor Partnership (TOP), for an awesome day on the Hill!
#AccessYourAdventure #OutdoorsTN #OutdoorsDayOnTheHill2026 #TNConservation #TennesseeOutdoorsPartnership #OutdoorRecreation
Green Cove Pond Reopens with BoardSafe Accessible Fishing Pier
After years of restoration and accessible improvements, Green Cove Pond is once again welcoming anglers, and it’s better than ever!
As of March 1, 2026, Green Cove Pond officially reopened within the scenic Cherokee National Forest near Tellico Plains. Green Cove Pond is one of the most cherished trout fishing destinations in Tennessee. Its reopening represents a renewed commitment to conservation, accessibility, and community connection.
Over the course of the project, efforts were made to restore the pond’s ecosystem by removing more than 500 cubic yards of sediment, which deepened the pond and restored cooler and more oxygen-rich water that supports the Rainbow Trout population.
The new BoardSafe floating fishing pier connects the land to the water by an accessible gangway. Park infrastructure also offers ADA-compliant parking, sidewalks, and a picnic area. The extended walking trail around the pond also opens additional shoreline fishing opportunities, helping to spread out anglers and enhancing the overall fishing experience.
The accessible upgrades make the pond more welcoming to everyone, ensuring families, seniors, and individuals with mobility challenges can more easily enjoy time on the water, whether it’s their first visit or a long-awaited return.
Green Cove Pond is part of many park systems managed by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. The revitalized pond represents a long-term investment in conservation, stewardship, and community access. The updated amenities ensure that more people can experience the joy of fishing and the natural beauty of Tennessee’s mountains.
Whether you’re casting a line for the first time or returning to a favorite spot, Green Cove Pond is ready for you. We hope to see you out there enjoying the new park amenities!
Read more about Green Cove Pond here:
Popular Trout Angling Destination Opens after Renovations.
BoardSafe Docks understands the impact its accessible waterfront infrastructure offers parks and communities across the nation. To learn more about BoardSafe’s accessible products, fishing piers, boat docks, adaptive kayak launches, and more, you may contact us at BoardSafeDocks.com or give us a call at (610) 899-0286.
#AccessYourAdventure #AccessibleFishing #FishingLife #AccessibleOutdoors #TroutFishing #CherokeeNationalForest #AccessibleForAll @BoardSafeDocks.com
BoardSafe Builds Waterfront Infrastructure for Bassmaster Classic
BoardSafeDocks designed and manufactured the waterfront infrastructure being used for this weekend's Bass Pro Shop Bassmaster Classic. The prestigious tournament offers free family events, thrilling competition, live weigh-ins, and an exciting expo, promising to make the "Super Bowl of Bass Fishing" a memorable event for all participants and attendees.
It’s always rewarding to see our docks put to work at events that bring thousands of anglers and fans to the water. Big thanks to the teams at Visit Knoxville and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (tn.gov/twra) for collaborating with us and getting everything ready for the tournament.
BoardSafeDocks extends our good luck to all of the anglers competing this weekend — we’re proud to play a small role in making access to the water safer and easier for all participants. See you in Knoxville on the Tennessee River!
#BassmasterClassic #Fishing #PublicAccess #WaterfrontInfrastructure #BoardSafeDocks
Celebrating BoardSafe Access at the William R. Gaines Park
Charlotte County Commissioner Stephen R. Deutsch recently joined Paddle 4 Heroes, the Charlotte County Veterans Council, members of our veterans community, and fellow residents to cut the ribbon on the park’s new BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch.
This project represents years of collaboration and commitment to make William R. Gaines Jr. Memorial Park a place that honors service, strengthens community, and ensures every resident can enjoy the outdoors with dignity and independence.
“As a disabled veteran, I know firsthand how meaningful true accessibility can be. When we remove barriers, we open doors, not just for recreation, but for connection, healing, and belonging. I’m proud to see our community come together to make this possible for all of our citizens,” said Commissioner Stephen R. Deutsch during the ceremony.
"It’s truly an honor to be part of the William R. Gaines Jr. Veterans Memorial Park and the Beirut Peacekeepers Tower. This is a powerful story that must be told and remembered," commented Stephen J. Fleming, the man behind much of the fundraising for the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch that was recently installed at the park.
Reconized for their participation was American Legion Post 110 for the presentation and retirement of colors; Master of Ceremony Lee Hale, U.S. Navy; Rev. Kevin Shaw, USMC, for the Invocation and Benediction; Jay Hemingway for leading the Pledge of Allegiance and Star Spangled Banner; Stephen R. Deutsch, USCG and Charlotte County Commissioner; Jeff Mosher, Beirut Veteran USMC; Charlie Foxtrot Brewing, Mission Barbeque, Durti Runners, Sweet Sparkman Architecture & Interiors, Willis Smith Construction, Jackson Signs, & BoardSafe Docks for manufacturing the accessible kayak launch and donating T-shirts to those attending the ribbon cutting ceremony.
The project was made possible with partial funding from Paddle for Heroes, a (501) (C3) non-profit working in cooperation with the county.
It took about two years to complete the permitting and approval documentation so kayaks and canoes can launch into the tributaries and canals into Charlotte Harbor. The work did not distrupt sea grass or small tooth sawfish living in the local tributaries. There was also “upland construction” to improve existing sidewalks and parking.
Learn more about the park’s plan and accessible amenities here: William R. Gaines Veterans Memorial Park, Charlotte County, FL, recognizes veterans and first responders with accessible park amenities.
BoardSafe + RAA = Inclusion in Action!
RAA Makes Inclusion Happen with Support from BoardSafe!
At Rochester Accessible Adventures (RAA), we believe that the joys of recreation and tourism experiences should be enjoyed by everyone. That’s why we are so thankful when we find people who think the same thing!
We are grateful we found BoardSafe Docks — leaders in adaptive waterfront access solutions — whose expertise helps transform inclusive outdoor experiences from an idea into reality! Just about the time RAA was beginning our work along the Erie Canalway back in 2015, we discovered an adaptive kayak launch that really rocks, and more importantly, we met the people behind that launch.
What BoardSafe Does (and Why It Matters)
BoardSafe Docks specializes in custom-designed adaptive kayak launches and dock systems that make water access truly inclusive for individuals of all abilities. We love that their adaptive kayak launch systems are engineered with accessibility features that support safe, dignified entry into the water — from thoughtful gangway design and ADA-informed configurations to careful attention to site-specific elements like parking access, shoreline terrain, and water conditions. Designed by people with disabilities, and always attentive to updates that make something good even better, these adaptive kayak launches are the most inclusive model we have found.
This attention to detail means that communities, businesses, and parks can offer water-based recreation that’s genuinely welcoming to everyone who wants to give it a try — and so that families and friends can experience outdoor adventures together.
“These BoardSafe launches just make it easier for everyone! You don’t have to worry about tipping over into the water while you are getting in and out of the boat. Those bars and straps make it so much easier to get in and out!”
Photos from the Erie Canal — where extraordinary things are happening through the Accessibility Education Program as RAA is in its 2nd year as the consultant for NYPA/NYS Canal Corporation to work with businesses and communities across the Canal system.
How BoardSafe Augments RAA’s Inclusion Work
RAA’s Inclusion Partnershipsalways include site assessments, accessibility planning, and inclusive program development for outdoor and recreation partners. When we connect with waterfront villages or businesses, we love it when BoardSafe is part of the conversations, because we know they will help translate accessibility visions into actual installations tailored to each unique location.
As each adaptive kayak launch is implemented, RAA can continue working with those communities to ensure the greatest number of people are aware of it and learn how to utilize it. Like when we hold our Extravaganza’s at these locations – so we can directly connect people to fun, memorable adventures on the water!
Amy, an RAA Founding Member, demonstrates how the BoardSafe adaptive kayak system works at the Brockport Welcome Centerto make entering and exiting a kayak and the Erie Canal a great experience.
Where Adaptive Launches Are Making an Impact
We’re proud to highlight just a few places where our Inclusion Partnerships and community work has resulted in a BoardSafe adaptive kayak launch installation – and follow the link below that takes you to ALL the places BoardSafe is impacting communities:
Erie Canal Boat Company (Fairport) — The place where it all started! With a custom adaptive launch and adaptive and standard equipment available 7 days a week, paddlers of all abilities can enter and exit the water safely and enjoy accessible recreational opportunities year after year!
Brockport Welcome Center (Brockport) — Right in the heart of the village, this lovely site serves as a recreation beacon for locals and visitors alike.
Churchville Park (Churchville) — BoardSafe’s newest adaptive kayak here in Monroe County opens another great waterway to an inclusive community experience.
Hudson Crossing Park (Schuylerville) — A new BoardSafe adaptive kayak launch is slated to open this spring, expanding water access for all visitors at a spectacular waterway crossing at a beautiful community-led park!
Elevator Alley Kayak (Buffalo)— Another exciting launch opening this spring, bringing adaptive paddle access to Western New York at the iconic ‘elevator alley’ location – a unique blend of urban and nature.
…and we’re already working on more across New York State!
Stay Tuned for Summer 2026!
We leave you with two thoughts:
- Celebrate with us and share in our gratitude to BoardSafe’s commitment to quality, safety, and accessibility that mirrors our mission at RAA — to ensure that people of all abilities can experience the health, confidence, and joy that come from outdoor recreation. Their support as an Inclusion in Action supporter for January sets the tone for a year filled with expanded access, partnership, and shared community impact.
- Follow us as we kick off 2026 in anticipation of a fabulous year of waterfront accessibility! We will invite you to many Grand Openings, Extravaganza’s, FREE On the Canals programs that take you out on excursions on the historic Erie Canalway, and more!
We’re grateful BoardSafe is alongside us on this journey —
helping more people say, “Yes, I can.”
BoardSafe Expands to Support Demand for Accessible Infrastructure
BoardSafeDocks of Fleetwood, PA, a leading designer and manufacturer of aluminum floating dock systems and accessible waterfront infrastructure, has completed a significant expansion of its manufacturing operations to support continued growth and increasing nationwide demand.
The expansion adds new production space and long-term infrastructure improvements that will allow BoardSafe to increase production, improve workflow efficiency, and continue delivering high-quality, custom-engineered dock systems for public agencies, municipalities, and private clients across the U.S.
“This investment reflects the sustained demand we’re seeing for durable, accessible, and thoughtfully engineered waterfront solutions,” said Tom Warchol, co-owner, BoardSafe. “By expanding our manufacturing footprint, we’re positioning the company to support our partners better, shorten lead times, and maintain the level of quality and service our customers expect.”
Working with Seedcopa to finance the purchase of additional manufacturing space has enabled us to grow and expand our manufacturing capabilities and meet customers’ growing needs. Seedcopa’s long-term, fixed-rate financing supports BoardSafe’s responsible growth and preserves operational flexibility and working capital. This expansion reinforces our commitment to long-term manufacturing investment, skilled labor, and domestic production.
BoardSafe’s dock systems are used nationwide in parks, marinas, riverfronts, and public access sites, with a strong focus on ADA-compliant design, resilience, and low lifecycle maintenance. The expanded facility will support both current product lines and future innovation as the company continues to grow.
For more information about BoardSafe, our products, or joining our innovative team, visit www.boardsafedocks.com.
Traverse City’s Discovery Pier Expands Universal Water Access with BoardSafe Accessible Gangway and Kayak Launch
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.