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
Cove Lake Pedestrian Trail Bridge Improves Trail Accessibility
Cove Lake State Park in Caryville, Tennessee, improved its trail access with a BoardSafe Pedestrian Bridge. The lake is located at 10 Cove Lake Road in Caryville, TN, 37714-0656.
Cove Lake State Park sits on 606 acres of beautiful mountains and valleys on the eastern edge of the Cumberland Plateau. It offers scenic nature trails that lead through a mixture of wetlands and woodlands. The locale is ideal for viewing wildlife, birding, and enjoying the panoramic views of the Tennessee Valley. It's the perfect place for nature-loving enthusiasts looking to connect to the outdoors.
There are six large picnic pavilions available for rent, making it a worthwhile destination for larger groups looking to enjoy their day. The park also offers 106 campsites equipped with grills and picnic tables for guests looking to extend their stay.
Cove Lake also offers a paved walking trail loop. The 3-mile trek is a moderate loop trail located near Caryville, Tennessee. It features views of the lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, running, nature trips, and bird watching. The trail is dog-friendly but dogs must be kept on a leash.
BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, is excited to be part of the trail improvements at Cove Lake State Park. BoardSafe designed, engineered, and manufactured the 6-ft x 60-ft powder-coated aluminum pedestrian trail bridge. The decking is marine-grade aluminum non-skid grating solid decking.
There are many benefits to using marine-grade aluminum in pedestrian bridges. The corrosive nature of water dictates the use of special materials for structures near, over, or in the water. Constant exposure to water and moisture warrants a marine-grade application, making aluminum-welded pedestrian bridges one of the best options available, similar to what was constructed for Cove Lake.
Aluminum develops a higher level of corrosion resistance and strength when alloyed with other metals to qualify as marine grade. This type of commercial aluminum can tolerate constant contact with water and will not corrode.
Wood rots and steel will rust, making marine-grade aluminum one of the best choices for use near high-moisture environments. Marine-grade aluminum offers high strength-to-weight ratios, superior corrosion resistance, and good formability and weldability. Aluminum footbridges will remain rust-free whether they are unpainted or powder-coated.
Pedestrian bridges add value to trails by connecting people to nature and providing access over and around rivers, streams, and ravines. Trail bridges are a strong, durable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective choice, allowing trail links to connect to neighboring communities and offer reliable pathways for many years ahead.
Kevin Jones and his crew from Blue Water Docks of Chattanooga, TN, installed the 60-foot pedestrian bridge at Cove Lake State Park.
BoardSafe is the trusted industry leader and educational advocate for accessible marine products. BoardSafe manufactures commercial aluminum pedestrian bridges using the highest-quality materials, including marine-grade 6160 aluminum and a heavy-duty proprietary extruded aluminum frame.
For surface decking, clients may choose non-skid aluminum deck boards, fiberglass grating, or composite deck boards connected with hidden TimberStrong deck fasteners. BoardSafe’s pedestrian bridges and walkways are designed for trail systems, lakes, marshlands, parks, and rivers, and offer expert solutions for accessibility along, near, or around any waterway.
To learn more about this project or similar designs, please call us at 610-899-0286 or visit our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
Acorn Lake Acquires Adaptive Kayak Launch by BoardSafe Docks
Lake Acorn, located within Montgomery Bell State Park at 1020 Jackson Hill Road in Burns, Tennessee, is a cherished spot for outdoor enthusiasts. For passionate paddlers, families who love to fish, or someone seeking a spot to enjoy the beautiful scenery, Lake Acorn offers something for everyone. The park's latest addition, a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, demonstrates its commitment to accessibility, ensuring all visitors, regardless of mobility, can experience the beauty on Acorn Lake.
BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch: Paddling Made Accessible
The new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, installed on the serene shores of Lake Acorn, is a major milestone for inclusivity in outdoor recreation. With this launch, paddlers of all abilities can easily access the water. The launch system features
- (1) 8’2” x 16’4” floating dock that allows for easy entry and exit from land to water, and accommodates wheelchairs with its stable aluminum-welded frame, composite decking materials, and protective toe kick.
- (1) 32’ x 4’ single rail gangway for smooth ADA wheelchair access to the dock.
- (1) 32’ chute for kayaks.
- (1) 16’4” kayak launch, with a stable cradle for the kayak and side pull bars.
- (1) adaptive kit with adaptive boarding bench, overhead grab bar, hand straps, and signage.
- bulkhead mounting angle to attach to the concrete foundation.
The adaptive launch promotes inclusivity and provides independence to individuals with disabilities who wish to enjoy kayaking or fishing on the lake from their kayak. The installation makes Montgomery Bell State Park a paddler's paradise and a top destination for accessible outdoor activities in Tennessee.
Paddling on the Lake and Boat Rentals
Lake Acorn caters to paddlers with various boat rental options. Broken Paddle Outfitters (no affiliation with BoardSafe Docks), is located at the park’s boat dock, and rents kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, and flat-bottom fishing boats. Private vessels are welcome on the lake; however, gas-powered motors are prohibited in order to preserve the tranquility of the lake. To rent equipment, visitors can contact Broken Paddle Outfitters at 615-669-8196.
Fishing at Lake Acorn
Fishing is another highlight at Lake Acorn. Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) works diligently to make fishing a highlight at Lake Acorn. The lake is a family-friendly fishing hotspot. Stocked with rainbow trout, the lake promises high catch rates and fun for beginners and seasoned anglers. The lake does hold anglers to a seven-fish daily limit, but it's a perfect spot for a day of fishing in a very peaceful setting.
Swimming at Lake Acorn
Across the footbridge from the Lodge at Montgomery Bell, Lake Acorn’s swim beach welcomes all park visitors. The calm waters on the lake are ideal for swimming, making it a favorite summer activity for families. Paddleboards and other watercraft are available for rent near the beach, offering a full day of aquatic fun for visitors.
Wildlife Watching
Montgomery Bell State Park boasts 20 miles of trails and a campground with some rentable cabins, making it an ideal destination for weekend getaways. Day trippers and nature lovers will also appreciate the diverse wildlife in the park. The park’s serene landscape provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching and appreciating nature. Visitors report seeing mallards, wood ducks, bald eagles, and various songbirds like the Carolina chickadee, tufted titmouse, white-breasted nuthatch, barred owl, and more.
Accessible Facilities
Montgomery Bell State Park is dedicated to providing accessible facilities for all visitors. The aviary features a wheelchair-accessible sidewalk, allowing close-up views of the birds. The Lake Woodhaven Spillway Overlook can also be accessed via a concrete sidewalk, offering stunning views of the spillway and surrounding landscapes.
For those planning a picnic, the Lake Woodhaven Picnic Shelter includes a wheelchair-accessible table equipped with electricity, water, and a grill. Accessible picnic tables are conveniently located along roadways and in various areas throughout the park.
Montgomery Bell’s Complete Outdoor Experience
Lake Acorn in Montgomery Bell State Park is more than just a beautiful lake; the state park offers 3,847 acres of parkland and is a welcoming destination for families and individuals of all abilities. With the addition of the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch and its inclusive recreational activities, the park stands as a model for accessibility in outdoor recreation. Whether you’re kayaking, fishing, swimming, exploring the trails, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, Lake Acorn offers an unforgettable experience.
BoardSafe Docks understands the impact its accessible launch with adaptive features offers to its users. Whether experienced or novice, the features offer an easier way in and out of vessels, making the experience safer and more enjoyable for all.
To learn more about how we can improve accessibility on your lake, river, or water access point, please give us a call at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at Sales & General Inquiry - BoardSafe Docks.
BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, William R. Gaines Veterans Memorial Park, Charlotte County, FL
Charlotte County Parks and Recreation offered gratitude to BoardSafe Docks and Scott Tihansky for their invaluable support in designing, manufacturing, and volunteering to help install the new, fully ADA-compliant kayak launch at the William R. Gaines Jr. Veterans Memorial Park, located at 20414 Edgewater Drive, Port Charlotte, Florida. On September 16, 2024, an installation team worked together to complete the assembly and installation of the BoardSafe Accessible and Adaptive Kayak and Canoe Launch.
The launch site is part of Charlotte County’s Blue Way Trail System, which invites kayakers to paddle along 219 miles of coastline in and around Charlotte County. This fully accessible launch was designed with features that can accommodate paddlers in wheelchairs and those with limited mobility, offering everyone who enjoys paddling the opportunity to get out and experience the county’s beautiful canalways and trail system.
The launch’s adaptive features were created with input from paddlers in wheelchairs who depend on their upper body extremities to enter and exit their vessels. The features (ADA gangway, boarding bench, grab bars, straps, pull bars, and signage) provide accommodations to amputees and those paralyzed from the waist down, giving them the ability to get out on the water with family and friends. The launch features offer independence and can be life-changing for anyone with mobility limitations.
Watch a demonstration video here:
The Most Accessible Adaptive Kayak Launch
This installation would not have been possible without the assistance of Keesling Construction Inc. of Punta Gorda, Florida. The Keesling crew brought in a crane to help move the components into place on-site. They also installed concrete pilings to secure the launch.
Florida Premiere Contractors, the contractor overseeing the kayak launch site development, prepared the site for installation and provided an aerial photo of the park during the process.
The county also extends thanks to Paddle for Heroes and its founder and CEO, Stephen Fleming, for their support in raising the funds for the kayak launch. Stephen flew down from Michigan and was on-site to assist with the installation. This ADA-compliant kayak launch would not have been realized without their support and fundraising efforts.
BoardSafe Docks understands the value an accessible launch brings to communities.
An accessible kayak launch with adaptive features benefits a significant portion of our veteran population, including paddlers with mobility impairments, older adults, and people with temporary injuries or permanent conditions. Ask any adaptive kayaker about their feelings of enjoyment, liberation, and empowerment after completing a paddle. Many will tell you they cannot wait to get back out on the water!
Charlotte County remains committed to creating a fully accessible park for its visitors to enjoy, as well as a location that recognizes the service and sacrifice of veterans and first responders from Charlotte County and beyond. Currently, over 22,000 veterans reside in Charlotte County. Every veteran and first responder has their own experience and tells their own story; this park is for them with appreciation and gratitude for their service.
Mike Gaines, a leading advocate working with county officials to memorialize his brother’s sacrifice, works tirelessly to create a park destination that honors his brother’s legacy and deep commitment to our freedom. Watch this video link about their joint efforts here: Beirut Peacekeepers Memorial Tower going up in Port Charlotte.
If you are interested in following updates about this fully accessible park in honor of all veterans and first responders, please click on this link to follow or make a worthwhile donation to:
Updates | WRGj Veteran Memorial Fund
William R Gaines Jr. Veteran Memorial Fund
3280-36 Tamiami Trail
Unit 121
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
Phone: 941-218-0456
BoardSafeDocks.com prides itself on developing trusting and respectful relationships with our clients and is honored to be part of Charlotte County’s project, which will improve lifestyles for adaptive and recreation-loving paddlers.
For more information about our accessibility product line, please call us at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
PFBC Accepting Applications for Boating Facility Grant Program
BoardSafe Docks, innovators in the planning, design, manufacture, and installation of adaptive and accessible floating docks and launches, is spreading the word that the PA Fish and Boat Commission is offering grants for improving public boating facilities on our waterways.
Grants have enabled many Pennsylvania parks and other venues to invest in BoardSafe's unique docks and launches, providing recreational opportunities for all community members.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (September 5) – As a growing number of communities realize the positive social and economic impacts of having convenient boating access along their local waterways, 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.
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 be used to enhance the facility’s ADA compliance or by adding 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 prides itself on developing a trusting and respectful relationship with its clients throughout the design and manufacturing process. Their team understands their products’ impact on communities and has witnessed their product designs improve lifestyles for the adaptive and recreation-loving communities they serve. They are proud of the partnerships they develop with their customers and appreciate the opportunity to develop their customers’ visions and turn them into legacies of waterfront inclusivity for generations to come. For more information, contact us at 610-899-0286 or through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.