BoardSafe Universal Access Kayak Launch, Great Sacandaga Lake, Northville NY
BoardSafe Docks is proud to announce a recent installation on the Great Sacandaga Lake in Northville, NY. The lake and launch are located in the southern region of the Adirondack Mountains. The Great Sacandaga Lake is one of the area’s best-kept secrets, an undiscovered mecca for boating, water sports, snowmobiling, skiing, fishing, and outdoor recreation.
BoardSafe’s customer, the Northville Rotary Foundation, was looking to improve the paddle accessibility of its lake and offer universal access to all looking to get out on the lake and paddle. The Northville Rotary Foundation selected BoardSafe’s Universal Access Kayak Launch as their accessible and adaptive solution for paddlers looking to get out and enjoy the beauty of the water. Here’s a video of its new launch:
Northville, NY Adaptive Kayak Launch Installed on Great Sacandaga Lake
The Village of Northville, Fulton County, is a well-kept secret strategically situated on the upper portion of the Great Sacandaga Lake, where the Sacandaga River flows from the north. Residents and visitors recognize the village as one of the most unique small towns in the Adirondacks. Great Sacandaga Lake is a wonderful getaway destination, surrounded by great restaurants, quaint shops, and bounds of history. Those looking for the kayak launch on the lake can find the launch at coordinates 43.21720734104117 - 74.1673455390182.
The universal access launch is the first of its kind in the Adirondacks. The launch project, spearheaded and funded by the Northville Rotary Foundation, prides itself on investing in the local communities and improving the quality of life for its residents. It’s common for BoardSafe to work with community groups like Rotary Clubs and paddling groups, nonprofits, and friends of parks, who are looking to provide additional recreational opportunities for paddlers of all abilities.
The scope of the Northville Kayak Launch Project included one universal access kayak launch and one 20-ft. gangway/chute consisting of
- (1) 8’2” x 16’4” floating dock.
- (1) 4’2” x 16’4” floating dock.
- (1) 16’4” kayak launch.
- (1) adaptive kit.
- (1) 20-ft. x 4ft single rail gangway.
- (1) 20-ft. kayak chute.
- Bulkhead mounting angle to attach to the concrete foundation.
- (2) precast concrete blocks.
Since 2009, BoardSafe Docks has designed, manufactured, and installed high-quality universal access kayak launches, floating docks, pedestrian bridges, and other marine access products. BoardSafe’s experience in construction and manufacturing gives them unparalleled expertise and innovative solutions to address the dynamic conditions of tides, currents, and other water fluctuations, ranging from severe flooding to drought conditions. This has made BoardSafe the trusted expert for park directors, civil engineers, landscape architects, and other professionals who desire only the best-engineered and highest-quality marine access systems.
Contact us today to help you configure your universal access launch system at BoardSafeDocks.com or by calling 610-899-0286.
Including More Paddlers With an Accessible Kayak Launch
Bill Bogdan is a man who loves the great outdoors. His favorite activities include kayaking, fishing, camping, mountain biking, and scuba diving. What makes this 54-year-old outdoorsman so unique is that at eight months old, he was diagnosed with neuroblastoma. He doesn’t remember much about his surgery or cancer treatments that left him with incomplete paraplegia. Still, he lives his life with strong resiliency and acts as an advocate for equitable and inclusive recreational opportunities for people with disabilities.
Bill recently joined the New Business Development team at BoardSafe Docks after using BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch. Bogdan was so excited about its ease of use that he immediately contacted one of the company’s owners, Scott Tihansky, explaining how liberating it was to launch independently on his first attempt using the launch. What makes BoardSafe’s Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch unique is that it was designed with input from paddlers in wheelchairs. They provided feedback on adaptations that worked, those that didn’t, and features that needed further development and consideration.
Read more about Bogdan’s positive experience using the universal access launch system in Including More Paddlers With an Accessible Kayak Launch.
BoardSafe’s Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch, designed for universal access, improves the paddling experience for paddlers of all abilities looking for a safer and easier entrance into the water.
To discuss your project and learn more about BoardSafe Docks and our specific adaptive features that work for the widest range of users, please call us at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
#AdaptivePaddling #Kayaking #UniversalAccess #Inclusion #AccessibleSolutions
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.
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
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.