Chester Frost Park's New 80-ft. Gangway, Accessible Fishing Pier, Courtesy Docks
Chester Frost Park, nestled on the scenic shores of Chickamauga Lake in Hixson, Tennessee, continues to evolve as a premier recreational destination. The latest addition to its amenities will be a brand-new 80-ft. gangway, two courtesy docks, and an accessible fishing pier designed, engineered, and manufactured by BoardSafe Docks. This significant enhancement promises to elevate the park's allure and accessibility for locals and visitors alike.
The Chester Frost Boat Ramp was rebuilt in March of 2023 and was part of Phase I improvements scheduled for the park. Although Chester Frost is a Hamilton County Parks and Recreation property, the improvements to its boat ramp on Chickamauga Lake came from TWRA and the Tennessee Dept. of Tourism. Lake Chickamauga is one of 18 lakes across Tennessee designated as Bill Dance Signature Lakes. The famous angler Bill Dance lends his name with hope and support of turning these locations into national destination lakes for bass anglers.
Phase II of the project includes replacing the courtesy docks and the nearby fishing pier while improving access to both. Both areas remain closed and have been in disrepair since they were damaged in a storm. Hamilton County is pleased this project phase is near completion and ready for all to enjoy.
“More than one million Tennesseans held a valid fishing license in 2023,” said Dennis Tumlin, Chief Customer Officer at Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “These improvements at Chester Frost Park and Chickamauga Lake will enhance the visitor’s experience for generations to come." Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Department holds a vision for creating the best outdoor spaces for visitors to Hamilton County Parks. BoardSafe’s design expertise and experience in design solutions for improved accessibility helped Hamilton County realize this vision.
Expanding accessibility with ADA Gangway
The new 80-ft. gangway is a testament to the park's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Designed, engineered, and manufactured by BoardSafe Docks to accommodate individuals of all abilities, the gangway ensures seamless access to the water's edge, opening up a world of recreational opportunities previously inaccessible to some paddlers and anglers in wheelchairs.
Accessible Fishing Pier
One of the most notable features of the new enhancements is the addition of an accessible fishing pier. Strategically positioned for optimal fishing experiences, this pier provides a designated space for anglers of all skill levels to cast their lines and reel in the day's catch. Its accessibility ensures that everyone, even anglers with mobility limitations, can participate in the joys of fishing and communing with nature on Chickamauga Lake.
Enhanced Courtesy Docks
In addition to the new gangway and fishing pier, Chester Frost Park has upgraded its courtesy docks for boaters. Boaters will appreciate the convenience of these improved facilities that make launching and docking watercraft a breeze. Whether it’s embarking on a leisurely cruise or setting out for a day of water sports, the enhanced docks improve the overall boating experience at the park.
Community Impact
The installation of these enhancements marks a significant milestone for Chester Frost Park and the surrounding community. Not only do they enrich the recreational offerings of the park, they also foster a greater sense of community engagement and enjoyment. Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers can gather to create lasting memories of Lake Chickamauga’s natural splendor.
As Chester Frost Park continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of its visitors, the completion of the new 80-ft. gangway, courtesy docks, and accessible fishing pier stands as a testament to its dedication to accessibility, recreation, community, and visitors. Whether casting a line from the fishing pier, launching a boat from the courtesy docks, or simply soaking in the beauty of the lake, visitors are sure to find endless opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment amidst the natural wonders of this beloved park.
The scope of BoardSafe’s project at Chester Frost Park
(1) 6 X 15 floating dock
(1) 6 X 25 floating dock
(5) 8 X 25 floating docks
(2) 8 X 15 floating docks
(1) 8 X 80 dual-rail gangway that brings access to a 960-sq.-ft. covered fishing pier
The Chester Frost project was installed by Blue Water Docks in Chattanooga, TN.
Kevin Jones led the installation.
BoardSafe Docks understands the impact safe and easy water access provides for fishermen, boaters, paddlers, and park visitors. When people have great places to go that meet their unique needs, the investment builds a vibrant, healthy, cohesive community. BoardSafe’s products require minimal maintenance and upkeep after they are installed. Its systems are manufactured using aluminum frames and extrusions, composite decking materials, non-polluting flotation, and stainless steel, which will pay dividends to communities for years to come.
BoardSafe is a leading provider of innovative access solutions that specialize in the design, fabrication, and installation of floating docks, gangways, pedestrian bridges, adaptive kayak launches, and accessible fishing piers, all of which promote accessibility and inclusivity for waterfront activities. Contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 for more information on your solution for inclusive access with universal design features.
Friendship Park Offers Lake Access With BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch
Jefferson County Park Commissioners are excited to bring accessibility to their lake at Friendship Park in Steubenville, Ohio. Friendship Park is a 1320-acre park located right outside the Village of Smithfield. The park has camping, boating, and fishing facilities, and is a popular spot for bird watching, biking, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities.
“We are excited to add this amenity to the park and make the lake more accessible,” said Judy Henthorn, Park Commissioner. “We are already seeing an increase in park attendance from this addition and are pleased the county commissioners saw the importance and potential of this project and helped provide the funding to make it possible.” The new amenity also aligns with their goal of creating more inclusive recreational outlets for people in Jefferson County.
The 89-acre lake provides fishing for bass, bluegill, carp, trout, and catfish. An additional 5 small lakes surround the main lake and camping areas. Nature lovers can enjoy the serene location and its numerous activities.
Adding to the park’s recreational amenities is a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch that offers people of all abilities an opportunity to get out on the water to paddle and fish.
The universal access launch offers paddlers and fishermen safe and easy access to their vessels when entering and exiting their kayaks and canoes.
Jennifer Simms, Friendship Park’s Paddle Sports Program Coordinator, explained, “It was important to have something adaptive for people with physical limitations. I’m excited about the support from the commissioners and community that made it happen.” Simms saw BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch “as an opportunity to introduce the residents of Jefferson County and the surrounding area to the beauty of Friendship Park. She and those in support of the launch understand the importance of including everyone, especially those with mobility limitations.
The scope of the project included:
- (2) 8x16 floating docks.
- (2) 16 ft. kayak launches.
- (1) adaptive kit for adaptive access.
- (1) 20 ft. gangway and chute.
- Bulkhead mounting angle.
- (2) 2’6” x 2’6” x 5’0” precast foundation blocks.
The town announced a ribbon-cutting ceremony to promote its new universal access launch system for Saturday, May 18th. They’re already working on a schedule of future events to be held at the park. The ribbon-cutting ceremony looks like it will be an amazing day of fun activities for the community and includes:
- the ribbon-cutting ceremony beginning at 11 a.m., with festivities through 2 p.m.
- the Coast Guard Flotilla 082-07-02 that will be available from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for complementary vessel inspections, with a safety class beginning at 10 a.m.
- food provided by Crossroads Christian Church Wintersville, and the Ice Cream Island food truck will be on-site.
- a chance for Park patrons to purchase tickets for $10 each for a chance to win a kayak donated by Friends of Smithfield, with all proceeds benefiting the Paddle Sports Program at the park. The drawing will be held at 2 p.m.
Residents who want to learn more about the Adaptive Kayak Launch or park amenities should visit the Friendship Park District page on Facebook or email [email protected].
BoardSafe understands communities are looking for close-to-home recreation and safe and easy access to the water. More Features = More Paddlers.
BoardSafe Docks is the industry leader in Adaptive Kayak Launches and Accessible Fishing Piers, Gangways, Pedestrian Bridges, and other water access products. Let us help you with a free design consultation or virtual meeting to ensure your project provides universal access and offers paddle accessibility to anyone who wishes to get out and enjoy the water.
Lehigh Valley Style Magazine: Accessible Outdoors Benefits Everyone
BoardSafe Docks is pleased to be recognized in Lehigh Valley Style Magazine as an option for accessible recreation for people of all abilities.
Cindy Ross, author, and her husband, Todd Gladfelter, an adaptive outdoor enthusiast, appreciate the adaptive features in BoardSafe’s Kayak Launch and Accessible Fishing Pier at Leaser Lake in Kempton, PA.
Cindy recognizes the need to improve accessibility to the great outdoors. She acknowledges Leaser Lake, Hawk Mountain, and other local trails for creating access to nature for everyone who wishes to participate in outdoor recreation.
One in four Americans lives with a disability; that’s 61 million people and one million people who require a wheelchair. Disabilities often keep people at home, but recent studies have recognized the therapeutic value of time spent in nature. You may read Cindy’s article here: Discover Why Accessible Nature is a Win for All.
BoardSafe Docks Continues to Inform and Educate About Accessibility
Local and regional governments and public and private organizations overseeing waterways are recognizing the need for, and actively supporting, programs to provide access to the waters for people with mobility challenges.
As these organizations plan facilities for all of their citizens or members, they look for input from various experts in design, engineering, and installation, as well as financing, site evaluation, civic planning, and ecological impact. BoardSafe Docks works with planners and other experts to design, manufacture, and install their innovative, durable, ADA-compliant, accessible aluminum floating docks, kayak launches, and other products.
As we seek to meet, inspire, and educate public and private organizations, we attend conferences during the year to make connections that benefit adaptive sports enthusiasts and the communities in which they live.
Upcoming Conferences—Come and Meet Us!
- BoardSafe will be attending the upcoming Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention. April 10–12. https://www3.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/
UWEXLakes/Pages/programs/ convention/default.aspx - Kelly Beals will attend on behalf of BoardSafe and will have a sponsorship table.
- BoardSafe will be attending and sponsoring the upcoming NYS Canals Forum "Accessible Recreation on the Canalway" April 10th. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/
accessible-recreation-on-the- canalway-tickets-845952164697? aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid= IwAR05Bz8yxxGJ980fOzOElnUEGaDz g8XxoM_sfOBu19deje_05hIXvcMuI_ w - Tom Warchol will attend and will have a BoardSafe table.
- BoardSafe will be attending and speaking at the upcoming PE-DE ASLA Meeting in SkyTop, PA, April 11th. https://na.eventscloud.com/
website/44167/conference- speakers/ - Tom Warchol will attend and speak on the subject of "Providing Accessibility for All Abilities."
- BoardSafe will be attending and sponsoring the Great Miami Riverway Summit, April 19th in Piqua, OH. https://www.
greatmiamiriverway.com/blog- entry/2024riverwaysummit - Kelly Beals will attend on behalf of BoardSafe and will have a sponsorship table.
Check back often for more opportunities to meet our crew and learn about how you can open up your waterways to friends and families of all abilities!
BoardSafe Docks Is Hiring!
Anticipated openings for:
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General Laborers and Experienced Carpenters
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Certified Welders
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Draftsmen proficient in SolidWorks to assist our current Drafting Team
Are you looking to impact people’s lives and improve communities? Are you interested in creating and improving recreational access to waterways? Do you want to work with a committed and professional team? BoardSafe is looking for candidates who will contribute to designing, manufacturing, and creating solutions for improving accessibility for all who wish to access the water.
View some of our project videos:
Safety on the Water Beyond a BoardSafe Dock
The popularity of paddlesports continues to grow as more and more people take up paddling. Paddlesports are a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors, have some fun, and stay in shape. Paddling is a popular recreational activity that family and friends can enjoy together. BoardSafeDocks has designed an inclusive launch system that gets people of all abilities into the water safely—however, safety continues beyond launching your vessel into the water.
Tips for a successful paddling experience
Many factors can turn a pleasant paddling experience into a dangerous situation. There are many steps you can take to ensure a safe paddling experience. Some of the most common tips for a successful experience are listed here:
- Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. They are proven lifesavers. One of the biggest reasons people take their life jacket off is because they find it uncomfortable to kayak with. This is why it's worth investing in a kayaking-specific life jacket that is designed to be comfortable and less restrictive when paddling.
- Check the weather in advance of your paddle trip. Getting caught in inclement weather will ruin your experience. Plus, it’s always best to dress for immersion, just in case.
- Create a float plan. Travel with a companion or group. Plan your trip with a map before departing and advise someone you trust of your plans, your route, your launch and take-out site(s), boat description, and estimated times of departure and arrival.
- Be prepared. Always carry plenty of water and food to stay fueled and hydrated. Dress appropriately. Wear quick-dry clothing and proper water shoes. Bring a basic first aid and repair kit, bilge pump, sunglasses, sunscreen, and bug repellant.
- Know that most people paddle two to three river miles per hour; however, water levels can speed up or slow down a trip. Water levels change from season to season and with little notice due to rain events. Even the most experienced should take caution, considering low bridge heights above water. Droughts will also affect your experience. Dams, jams, and other obstructions may require portaging. Be aware of river obstructions such as overhanging branches or dead trees under water that may not be visible. These obstructions, as well as powercrafts, can flip a watercraft, so learn reentry and practice it in a controlled environment.
- Be aware of power boats and other fast-moving watercraft, reduce proximity to power boats, and be cautious if near them.
- Protect the water and shorelands. Remember that much of the shorelands are privately owned.
- Most importantly, be aware of your abilities and limitations and be sure to paddle within your skill level. When paddling in a group, never paddle beyond the abilities of your weakest paddler.
The 5 most common mistakes made by kayakers
Here are some of the most common mistakes made by all paddlers that affect the paddling experience.
- Mistake #1: Launching in dangerous water
- Mistake #2: Attempting busy waterways
- Mistake #3: Choosing uncomfortable weather
- Mistake #4: Overextending or overconfidence
- Mistake #5: Using gear improperly
Improving safety awareness
A successful river trip is a safe river trip. BoardSafe Docks’ Adaptive Kayak Launch changes lives, improves the user experience for all paddlers, and impacts communities. Part of our mission is to educate our customers about our safe launch system; however, also understanding the importance of safe practices on the water will enhance the user experience and keep people coming back. For more safety information, the American Canoe Association has a detailed PaddleSport Safety Information link below:
For more than 20 years, BoardSafe Docks has been a trusted leader within the commercial dock-building industry. BoardSafe’s team has the resources, knowledge, and experience to successfully take projects from inception to completion, delivering them on time and exceeding client expectations. We specialize in aluminum-welded floating docks, marinas, rowing centers, adaptive kayak launches, gangways, stationary and floating fishing piers, pedestrian bridges, and other waterfront access products.
If you’re looking for safe access to the water, give us a call at 610.899.0286 or contact us through BoardSafeDocks.com and allow us to find a solution for improving access to your waterfront.
The Fabulous Fox! River Summit Is Only 2 Days Away!
The Fox River Summit is an annual gathering of organizations, municipalities, citizens, and stakeholders across the Fox River Watershed. Building partnerships and developing an open dialog about the issues important to managing the watershed is a key component of the summit. The program features speakers and presentations highlighting these issues, and it’s also an opportunity to celebrate the success stories along the Fox River.
Tom Warchol, BoardSafe Partner, will present information on “The Value of Investing in Universal Access Kayak Launches for Paddlers with Disabilities.”
BoardSafe’s Kayak Launch provides access to adaptive paddlers and allows them to leave their wheelchairs behind and paddle with family and friends.
Wisconsin and Illinois have partnered with the National Park Service to create the Fabulous Fox! River Water Trail. A list of access sites (by community or keyword) to the water trail is available at this link: Access Sites - Fabulous Fox! Water Trail. The site offers information about the trail, maps, itineraries, and all you need to plan an amazing day on the water.
BoardSafeDocks hopes to meet you Thursday, March 14, at Veterans Terrace, Echo Park, Burlington, WI. A complete list of featured speakers and topics for the summit is listed here: 2024 Fox River Summit.
Click here to register: southeastfoxriver.org.
BoardSafe Docks Presents at Fox River Summit, Burlington, WI
BoardSafeDocks invites you to join us at the 2024 Fox River Summit on Thursday, March 14, 2024, in Burlington, WI.
Tom Warchol, BoardSafe Partner, will present information on “The Value of Investing in Universal Access Kayak Launches for Paddlers with Disabilities.”
Learn how improving accessibility enhances the user experience for all.
Watch here: Adaptive Kayak Launch at Lake Chaminwood
The Mission of the Fox River Ecosystem Partnership has been to promote, preserve, protect, and enhance the natural, cultural, economic, and recreational resources of Fox River, which flows for almost 200 miles from Wisconsin into Illinois. It’s an annual gathering of organizations, municipalities, citizens, and stakeholders across the Fox River Watershed.
In 2023, the National Park Service recognized the Fabulous Fox! Water Trail as part of the National Water Trails System.
More information about the water trail is available here: The Fabulous Fox! Water Trail Website
Information and Registration are Now Open: southeastfoxriver.org
If you’re interested in learning more about water trails, mark March 14, 2024, on your calendar and join us at the Summit!
BoardSafe Docks Recognizes New Team Members
Kelly Beals, a New Business Development Team Member, joined BoardSafe Docks in October 2022. Kelly has extensive experience in non-profit fundraising, grant proposal writing and award management, capital campaign coordination, relationship building, stewardship, and solicitation. In her role as a member of the BoardSafe Docks Business Development Team, Kelly conducts research to identify potential customers that would benefit from BoardSafe’s products and services; builds and maintains relationships with potential customers; operationalizes strategies to achieve business goals; and collaborates with the Business Development Team to ensure alignment with BoardSafe’s overall business development objectives.
Kelly represented BoardSafe Docks as an exhibitor at the Ohio Riverway Summit, Tennessee RiverLine, Legacy Parks Foundation Luncheon for the Parks, SOBA Education and Training Symposium, and ASLA and NRPA conferences.
Kelly is often the first communicator with BoardSafe’s prospective clients and will assist them with finding possible grants to help fund adaptive kayak launches, fishing piers, and accessible water access products like gangways, pedestrian bridges, marinas, and rowing docks. Kelly has shown success in her new position by qualifying many of our new customers and clients, answering their questions, and coordinating sales meetings involving multiple stakeholders for the initial design and project planning. BoardSafe Docks prides itself on individualized customer service, consultation, and collaboration. Kelly's customer support is a big part of why BoardSafe is recognized as a trusted, respected, and responsive dock manufacturer in the marine industry.
Fun Fact About Kelly Kelly was born and raised in upstate New York and has been a Denver, Colorado, resident since 2015. Outside of work, you can find Kelly traveling, camping, taking motorcycle rides, eating good food, and loving on her fur babies.
Kelly can be reached at [email protected].
BoardSafeDocks also welcomes Brian Caldwell, Operations Manager, who joined BoardSafe Docks in September 2023. Brian has over 27 years of experience in the welding gas and fastener industry. The majority of his extensive experience has been working as a product line manager and territory manager. Brian’s responsibilities at BoardSafe include managing the day-to-day manufacturing and shop operations, supervising the manufacturing team, internal process improvement, and procurement of product materials and components. Brian is often the in-house communicator with our trucking companies, customers, and installers when coordinating the shipping and receiving of our adaptive kayak launches, accessible fishing piers, gangways, pedestrian bridges, and floating dock systems. Brian has already led improvement to our internal process and positively impacted internal efficiencies. BoardSafe is happy to have him as a part of our growing team.
Something to know about Brian Away from BoardSafe, you will find Brian working on many projects around his fishing cabin. He likes to relax by fly fishing, watching college football, and hanging out by the fire, next to the creek, along with his wife and dog—contemplating where a BoardSafe kayak launch and fishing pier may fit in!
Brian can be reached at [email protected].
2024 Tennessee RiverLine Summit Presented by BoardSafe Docks
BoardSafe Docks is pleased to partner with the Tennessee RiverLine to support the development of North America’s next great regional trail system.
The 2024 Summit is happening now at the Lodge at Pickwick Landing in Hardin County, TN.
The interactive forum offers planning sessions, outdoor excursions, water trail workshops, accessibility awareness, and networking opportunities.
Tennessee RiverLine’s vision of a continuous water trail experience begins where the Tennessee River forms in Knoxville, TN, to its confluence with the Ohio River in Paducah, KY. It includes 652 miles of paddle trails and touches the four states of Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, and Kentucky. Improving accessibility to the Tennessee River is a dream for anyone who enjoys kayaking, canoeing, and spending time on the water. Their full vision is laid out in the booklet here: Tennessee RiverLine Vision Booklet.pdf
Accessible recreation by BoardSafe
The desire for accessible recreation in and by the water offers new economic opportunities, encourages ecological stewardship and conservation, draws people to the water, and promotes better health for its citizens. Kayaking, canoeing, and fishing opportunities connect people to their communities. The advantage of ensuring that entry points offer universal access ensures that paddlers with disabilities and mobility limitations can be included in activities along with family and friends. Educating others about universal access has become a significant part of BoardSafe’s Mission. Our goal is to assist others in understanding that “accessible” is not synonymous with “adaptive.” Paddlers with physical disabilities and mobility limitations require additional adaptive features to enter their kayaks and get out on the water. When BoardSafe’s Kayak Launch was designed, BoardSafe’s team collaborated with a group of paddlers in wheelchairs who provided input into the launch’s features. These meetings ensured the necessary features were not overlooked and would be developed to the extent necessary to provide the accommodations paddlers in wheelchairs require for safe entry into their vessels. Equitable access ensures all paddlers may enjoy the beauty, diversity, and history of the Tennessee River and beyond.
What makes BoardSafe unique?
BoardSafe’s unique applications for improving accessibility with their adaptive features, paired with the design integrity of their floating dock system, continue to make them the industry leader and expert in accessibility for all. Ultimately, the user experience is improved for everyone who uses their launch systems for kayaking or fishing.
BoardSafe’s manufacturing takes place in Fleetwood, PA, but as a licensed contractor in Tennessee, they have a strong presence helping to improve accessibility with their adaptive kayak launches and fishing piers. Their pedestrian bridges, gangways, and rowing docks also improve access points throughout the state.
Representing BoardSafe Docks at RiverLine’s Summit are Tom Warchol, a BoardSafe Partner, Kelly Bealls from the Business Development Team, and Bill Bogdan, an adaptive sports enthusiast who has partnered with BoardSafe to share the important message about universal access for all.
Helping non-disabled people gain a better understanding of the features required for inclusive fishing and paddling is necessary because, all too often, launches are built and deemed to be accessible when they’re not. When a paddler in a wheelchair can enter their vessel safely and with minimal assistance, their experience is life-changing. The paddling experience is improved for the adaptive paddler as well as those kayaking with them. Here is a video of Bill using BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch independently: Adaptive Kayak Launch at Lake Chaminwood
Accessibility in the outdoors
Tennessee RiverLine is a catalyst for new investments in outdoor recreation and infrastructure that will create jobs and stimulate the economy. Successful paddle trails should ensure proper accessibility that includes features for paddlers in wheelchairs. Paddling and kayak fishing are a great part of their rehabilitation and exercise routine and it gets them out on the water with everyone else.
When accessibility is at the forefront of the design process, the paddling experience will be improved for all users. Communities investing in accessible infrastructure will benefit economically and ecologically, will improve public health, and draw more people to the water.
BoardSafe prides itself on developing a trusting and respectful relationship with our clients throughout the manufacturing process. Our team understands our products’ impact on communities and has witnessed our product designs improve lifestyles for the adaptive and recreation-loving communities we serve. We are proud of the partnerships we develop with our customers and appreciate the opportunity to develop our customers’ visions and turn them into legacies of waterfront inclusivity for generations to come. Through the power of partnerships and collaborative planning, great things are happening in Tennessee!
BoardSafe Docks is the industry leader in adaptive kayak launches and fishing piers, gangways and pedestrian bridges, rowing centers, and marinas. We specialize in design consultation, engineering, and manufacturing, and will work with you to ensure your project is accessible to the widest range of users. You may learn more about BoardSafe Dock’s projects through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com or by calling 610-899-0286.