BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch Enhances Accessibility at Lexington Lake
The Johnson County Parks and Recreation Department recently upgraded park amenities at Lexington Lake Park in Johnson County, Kansas, improving access to all kayakers looking to get out and enjoy paddling on the water.
Nestled within a 465-acre park, Lexington Lake spans 27 acres and is open for boating and fishing. Visitors must obtain appropriate fishing and boating permits, including a state fishing license when using a motorized boat, following state regulations. The park also features a 1.6-mile paved multi-use trail encircling the lake, and nine miles of mountain biking and hiking trails, making it a premier destination for outdoor recreation on both land and water.
Fishing permits and regulations
Fishing permits are available at the Visitor Services desk in the Shawnee Mission Park Administration Building, the Registration Office in Antioch Park, and retail locations including Bass Pro Shops, Scheels, and Walmart stores in Johnson County (Sporting Goods section). For more details, visit the Annual and General Permits page.
Children under 16 are generally exempt from needing a fishing license or JCPRD permit, except for trout fishing, which requires a JCPRD trout permit regardless of age.
Additional Lexington Lake Park Amenities
In addition to the adaptive kayak launch, Lexington Lake Park offers:
- a boat ramp and courtesy dock with parking.
- a drinking fountain.
- picnic shelters and grills.
- a playground.
- hiking and mountain biking trails.
- restrooms and paved multi-use trails.
View the Lexington Lake Park Map to explore available amenities before your visit.
Ecological significance of Lexington Lake Park
Beyond its recreational offerings, Lexington Lake Park is home to a range of unique and ecologically important habitats, including:
- Virgin Tallgrass Prairie Minimally disturbed, with more than 120 native plant species—indicative of a healthy and diverse ecosystem.
- Mead’s Milkweed A federally threatened plant species and a critical indicator of prairie health, found within the park’s untouched prairie zones.
- Oak and Hickory Forests A mature forest ecosystem supporting diverse wildlife and plant communities.
- Tallgrass Prairie Home to tall, perennial grasses and essential wildlife habitats, representing a vital ecological balance.
These natural features make Lexington Lake Park a haven for recreation, conservation, and environmental education.
BoardSafe Docks project scope for Lexington Lake Park
To improve water access, BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, supplied and manufactured a comprehensive adaptive kayak launch system. The project included:
- one 8’2” x 16’4” floating dock.
- one 4’2” x 16’4” floating dock.
- one 16’4” adaptive kayak launch.
- one adaptive kit.
- one 40’ x 4’ single-rail gangway and chute combination.
- a bulkhead mounting angle.
BoardSafe’s innovative adaptive kayak launch provides safe, stable, and independent access for paddlers of all abilities. Jordan Cline of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District managed the project, and Blue Water Docks of Chattanooga, Tennessee, completed the installation.
BoardSafe’s collaboration and technical expertise with our Installers
Blue Water Docks, led by Kevin Jones, has been a trusted installation partner of BoardSafe Docks for over a year. As one of our primary installers of BoardSafe’s accessible floating dock systems, the BWD team has grown to understand the technical complexity of our engineered solutions.
BoardSafe’s dock systems are frequently deployed in locations with steep embankments, fluctuating water levels, strong currents, and seasonal flooding. These challenges require more than a generic solution—they demand precision engineering and specialized construction methods. Our structures are designed to be robust, elevated, and durable, all while remaining fully accessible.
This collaboration reflects the strength of our turnkey approach: BoardSafe provides the design, engineering, and manufacturing expertise, while Blue Water Docks delivers skilled, efficient installations. Together, we deliver high-performance systems that meet the most demanding site conditions and leave our customers highly satisfied.
BoardSafe Docks: Setting the standard for adaptive marine access
Since 2009, BoardSafe Docks has been the industry leader in designing, engineering, and manufacturing premium aluminum marine access systems. Our products, including adaptive kayak launches, floating docks, pedestrian bridges, and more, are built to endure the toughest environmental conditions, from tidal shifts to flooding and drought.
BoardSafe is the trusted partner of park directors, civil engineers, landscape architects, and other professionals seeking the highest-quality, universally accessible marine solutions.
Contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com or give us a phone call at 610-899-0286 to allow us to analyze the access to your water entry points.
#AccessYourAdventure
BoardSafe & Venture Outdoors Launch Pittsburgh's Premier Paddle Center
BoardSafe Docks is proud to collaborate with Venture Outdoors of Pittsburgh, PA, on an exciting and innovative project: a one-of-a-kind paddle center along the Allegheny River in front of the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. After nearly two years of planning and collaboration, this state-of-the-art floating paddle and rental facility is poised to position Pittsburgh as a leader in urban paddlesports access.
The new paddle center will serve as a downtown hub for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), providing residents and visitors near the convention center with easy access to Pittsburgh’s iconic Three Rivers. With over 75 kayaks and other non-motorized paddle crafts, the center will feature multiple launch areas—including one specifically designed for paddlers in wheelchairs who require additional adaptive features to access the water.
The floating docks will span an impressive 100 feet by 50 feet, creating a vibrant, functional space for recreation right in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh. According to VisitPittsburgh, the concession is expected to boost tourism, drawing both locals and visitors to the waterfront.
Phase One Launching Near Memorial Day
Phase one of the project is slated to open near Memorial Day, marking a major milestone in downtown Pittsburgh’s efforts to expand outdoor recreation opportunities. This launch will open access to nature, particularly for those who live, work, or visit downtown and may not have the time or transportation to venture outside the city to recreate.
Venture Outdoors: Removing Barriers, Creating Access
Venture Outdoors is committed to ensuring that all of its programs are inclusive and meaningful for the community. By removing barriers—both physical and systemic—the organization creates opportunities for people of all backgrounds and abilities to experience the natural beauty in and around the City of Pittsburgh.
Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a curious beginner, Venture Outdoors provides equitable access to nature through kayak rentals, guided outings, paddling classes, and educational events. Learn more about their programs at ventureoutdoors.org or follow them on Facebook. You can also access a program calendar here for outings you may wish to participate in: Outings – Venture Outdoors.
Why Urban Outdoor Spaces Matter
In a busy city like Pittsburgh, not everyone has access to a car—or the time to leave the city—to escape into nature. That’s why local, walkable, outdoor recreation options are essential. Studies show that easy access to nature improves physical and mental health, reduces stress, and supports work-life balance. A central location like the Pittsburgh Convention Center, easily accessible to residents, conference attendees, and tourists alike, makes paddling on Pittsburgh’s rivers more convenient and inviting.
A Collaboration Rooted in Community Impact
While Venture Outdoors was searching for a permanent city base, they also found BoardSafe Docks, a nationally recognized designer, engineer, and manufacturer of aluminum floating dock systems from Eastern PA. Using BoardSafe’s experience in the industry allowed them to share their wishlist and collaborate on a design that would work for their organization and benefit the city, tourism, and local economy.
For close to 2 years, BoardSafe Docks has been working closely with Ash Andrews, Executive Director of Venture Outdoors, and Luke Borowy, Director of Paddlesports, to bring this vision to life. “We love a good partnership,” said Scott Tihansky of BoardSafe Docks. “By working with organizations connected to paddling, local government, and tourism, we’re able to offer a vital service that connects people to nature, enhances connections within communities, and boosts the local economy.”
Known for its expertise in accessible and adaptive waterfront design, BoardSafe Docks creates systems that remove barriers and offer universal access to all. With this new facility, Venture Outdoors and Kayak Pittsburgh will maintain high-quality rental gear and offer safe, memorable experiences for all users. When phase one of the rental facility gears up to open, trying paddle sports within the downtown area won’t get any easier.
Looking Ahead: Phase Two
Venture Outdoors is continuing its fundraising efforts for a second phase of the paddle center, which includes a kayak storage building, classroom space for educational outreach programs, and flexible meeting areas for community events. These additions will further enhance the Paddle Center’s role as a vibrant educational and recreational hub for the city.
Explore More
- Learn more about this project from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: $1.3M kayak hub outside Convention Center 'further positions Pittsburgh as an outdoor destination'
- View a similar project completed by BoardSafe in Austin, TX, and its impact on the city.Texas Rowing Center - the World Class Rowing Center Built by BoardSafe Docks
Let’s Get You on the Water
To find out how BoardSafe Docks can help you create your waterfront access point, adaptive paddle launch, accessible fishing pier, or courtesy boat dock, contact us at (610) 899-0286 or visit us at BoardSafeDocks.com. Let us help you design and build a space that draws people to the water, enhances the paddling experience, connects people to nature, and improves the local economy. #AccessYourAdventure #Kayaking #Paddling #KayakRentals
BoardSafe's Floating Docks Welcome Paddlers of All Abilities
Kayaking: A Fun but Intimidating Sport for Beginners
Let’s be honest—kayaking can feel overwhelming for first-time paddlers. Concerns about stability, getting in and out of the kayak, staying upright, and mastering the correct paddle stroke can make the experience seem daunting. These challenges often lead to initial awkwardness, sore muscles, and hesitation. However, the thrill of paddling, the connection with nature, and the camaraderie among fellow kayakers keep people coming back for more.
The Appeal of Paddling
Why do so many people gravitate toward kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding? Simply put—it’s fun! At BoardSafe Docks, we focus on education, safety, and accessibility so that everyone can enjoy time on the water. Paddling offers a unique combination of relaxation and excitement. Many paddlers find that being at water level, surrounded by nature, is personally rewarding. Ask anyone returning from a paddling trip, and they’ll likely share stories that created lasting memories. When people recall a memory of something “fun” or special in their life, it often includes several key elements: 1) interacting with nature or the outdoors, 2) bonding with family and friends, and 3) participating in a first-time or new activity. Paddling on the water checks all the boxes and adds to its appeal.
How First-Time Kayakers Get Hooked
Try this experiment: Ask five people if they remember catching their first baseball, tossing their first football, or shooting their first hoops in basketball. Few will recall those moments. Now, ask if they remember their first kayaking experience—you’ll likely get an enthusiastic response. Kayaking creates vivid, joyful memories; once people experience it, they’re eager to return to the water.
Kayaking Basics for Beginners
Here are some essential tips to ensure a successful first-time paddling experience.
- Stability Most kayaks, especially sit-on-top models, are designed to be highly stable, making it easier for beginners to maintain balance.
- Accessibility With proper instruction and calm water conditions, kayaking is enjoyable for people of all fitness levels.
- Choose the right waterway A lake or pond with minimal wind and boat traffic is the perfect place to start. Novice paddlers should try to avoid large rivers with strong currents.
- Pick a stable kayak Sit-on-top models are generally the easiest to start in.
- Take a lesson A beginner class with a qualified instructor can help you learn proper entry and exit techniques, paddle techniques, and maneuvering to avoid muscle fatigue.
- Wear a life jacket Always use a personal flotation device (PFD), stay hydrated, carry a safety whistle, and never paddle alone. Safety is paramount to your experience and enjoyment.
- Dress appropriately Wear layers suited for the weather and apply sunscreen.
- Use an accessible kayak launch for improved safety and an improved launching experience BoardSafe’s Accessible Kayak Launch enhances the paddling experience because of its specially designed features. Its features are designed for adaptive paddlers who need them; however, the system offers universal access for everyone looking to get out and enjoy the water. Find a BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch near you here: BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch Locations.
Staying Safe on the Water
Kayaking is generally safe, but preparation is key. If you’re renting equipment, consider going with a guide who knows the local waters and conditions. Other useful tips include:
- Learning to enter and exit the kayak takes practice, especially on moving water; that’s the benefit of launching from BoardSafe’s Kayak Launch.
- Learning how to maneuver your vessel (turn, move sideways, and paddle backward) is essential.
- Be aware of tides and currents, and never kayak alone.
- Visit KayakPaddling.net for key paddling techniques.
- The American Canoe Association offers a Paddlesports Online Course in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard. This mobile-friendly program takes about 20 minutes to complete, and upon passing, you’ll receive a certificate and be ready to paddle with more confidence!
BoardSafe Docks: Making Water Access Easier for Everyone
At BoardSafe Docks, we specialize in creating customized solutions for water entry challenges. Unlike one-size-fits-all designs, our launches are tailored to each waterway to ensure true accessibility. Whether you're a beginner or an adaptive paddler, our systems provide safe, reliable universal access to the water. Let us help design the perfect launch for your needs! Contact us for a free consultation at 610-899-0286 or through our website, Sales & General Inquiry - BoardSafe Docks.
Tennessee RiverLine 2025 Summit
BoardSafe Docks is pleased to partner with the Tennessee RiverLine for their 2025 Summit. The Summit in Knoxville, TN provides an opportunity to connect trail enthusiasts, community leaders, and visionaries who share a passion for promoting and creating recreational access to and around the Tennessee River.
Summit attendees can expect to participate in engaging discussions and informational presentations. They will network with experts like BoardSafe Docks who have created safe and easy access to waterfront communities with their adaptive kayak launch, accessible fishing piers, gangways, and pedestrian bridges.
BoardSafe is excited to help support The Tennessee Riverline in their mission to celebrate the beauty, diversity, and history of the Tennessee River Valley, while connecting communities, contributing to the economic growth, public health, and environmental stewardship that recreating on the river brings to local communities.
Join us in Knoxville, where the Tennessee RiverLine begins, and allow BoardSafe to help chart your course for an accessible future. BoardSafe Docks is a trusted leader in the commercial dock-building industry, known for their aluminum floating docks, piers, gangways, and launch systems that bring quality, accessibility, experience, and customization to communities looking to bring accessible recreational experiences to their communities.
Contact us at 610-899-0298 or at BoardSafeDocks.com and let us help you create your river adventure!
#AccessYourAdventure #BoardSafeFloatingDocks #AccessibleWatertrails
Accessible Adventure Awaits At Cruze Landing, Tennessee
Does the cold weather have you thinking about spring and looking forward to paddling down the French Broad River? If so, adventure awaits you on the river’s newest accessible kayak launch and courtesy docks recently installed at Cruze Landing, 7713 Kodak Road, Knoxville, Tennessee.
Several weeks ago, a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch and Courtesy Dock was installed at Seven Islands State Birding Park in Kodak, TN. Now, a second system has been completed less than 5 miles downriver toward Knoxville at Cruze Landing. This is all part of a 20-mile paddle trail that’s in the works and will take paddlers to Downtown Knoxville. BoardSafe’s kayak launch and fishing pier offer universal access to all visitors and provide safe and easy access to recreation on the French Broad River.
The East Tennessee project was announced in 2023 at the Legacy Parks Luncheon when the vision for the 20-mile river trail was shared with guests. To date, the launch sites at Seven Islands and Cruze Landing have been installed, and a third launch system for Volunteer Landing in Downtown Knoxville is in the design phase. Fundraising efforts and discussion are in place to create access and exit points within 5- to 7-mile intervals until the 20-mile stretch is fully accessible and reaches downtown Knoxville. These access points will provide a universally-designed paddle trail that offers inclusive paddling and fishing experiences for all looking to access the French Broad River. The accessible water trail will be the first of its kind in Tennessee, and stakeholders hope it will lead the way for many others.
Cruze Landing is an integral public access point to the French Broad River. In 2020, Legacy Parks Foundation acquired the property to stabilize the deteriorating boat ramp and use the opportunity to improve access for paddlers and boating enthusiasts while preserving and combining the location with the adjacent county park.
The partnership between Legacy Parks, Knox County, TWRA, and TVA helps to increase and improve access to rivers, trails, and parks, and maintain the health of waterways by preserving green space and shorelines throughout East Tennessee. BoardSafe Docks is honored to consult, design, manufacture, and guide the projects through their installation. BoardSafe creates aluminum floating dock systems for kayaking, fishing, and boating that will provide lasting access to the water for everyone to enjoy. BoardSafe has developed a reputation as the premier and trusted aluminum dock designer and manufacturer of high-quality, safe marine access products. Our inclusive designs provide solutions that are safe and functional with low impact on natural habitats.
The Cruze Landing system provides universal access to paddlers and fishermen in wheelchairs looking for a safer and easier manner to launch their vessels into the water. In addition to non-motorized access, the Cruze Landing location provides recent improvements to the deteriorating boat ramp, so boaters can once again access the river. The BoardSafe system also provides courtesy docks for temporary tie-ups for boaters as they take their boats in and out of the water. These improvements are part of Legacy Parks’ Head of the Tennessee Initiative—an effort to improve and increase public access to the waterways.
By creating inclusive access and accessible launch points, BoardSafe Docks opens up recreational opportunities to a wider demographic, generating more economic activity. The economic benefits of installing a BoardSafe Dock System include:
Increased tourism
By providing accessible access to waterways, BoardSafe Docks attract more visitors of all abilities, boosting tourism revenue from hotels, restaurants, and local businesses in the area.
Wider recreational participation
With accessible launch systems, more people can enjoy water activities like kayaking and fishing, generating further economic activity related to equipment rentals, guided tours, and related retail sales.
Community development
Installing BoardSafe Docks can be seen as a positive community development initiative, improving quality of life and attracting new residents.
Increase in property values
Accessible waterfront access can increase the value of nearby properties, benefiting local property owners.
Grants and funding opportunities
Many government agencies and organizations offer grants to support projects that improve accessibility, making it easier to fund BoardSafe Docks products and projects.
How Universal Access Designs work
BoardSafe Docks are specifically designed with features like ADA gangways and ramps, wide platforms, and adaptive board kits that allow people with mobility limitations to easily access kayaks, canoes, and other watercraft.
Our customers recognize the value our accessible products bring to communities and the economic contribution our products add to communities. For more information about this project or other unique projects that BoardSafe designs, engineers, and manufactures, call us at 610-899-0286 or visit BoardSafeDocks.com and allow us to help you design and create your paddle trail adventure! #AccessYourAdventure
New Paddle Opportunities at Seven Islands State Birding Park
The January sun glistened over the calm waters of Seven Islands State Birding Park in Kodak, Tennessee. The new year brings accessible paddle opportunities to the park with its newly installed BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch.
David Scott, enjoying the pristine beauty of the Tennessee River, was making a first attempt to launch and paddle independently using the universally-designed launch system.
David, an avid nature enthusiast who uses a wheelchair, received a new kayak for Christmas. This fueled his desire to get out on the river. When he heard about the new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak and Canoe Launch at Seven Islands State Birding Park, he knew it was the perfect opportunity to get out there with his family and friends to celebrate the beauty of a new year. “I’ve always loved the water, but accessibility has been challenging,” he shared. “This launch makes all the difference.”
The launch is part of Tennessee State Parks' commitment to inclusivity. With the help of BoardSafe Docks, the park now offers a launch designed to meet the needs of individuals with physical disabilities, and is usable by everyone looking for safer and easier access to the water. The system includes an ADA-sloped gangway, adaptive boarding features and equipment, and floating docks with room for wheelchairs and those who like to paddle and fish. The safety features are crafted to ensure that everyone has a safe and seamless transition from land to water.
David arrived early that morning and parked in the designated wheelchair-friendly spot near the Blue Barn. With accessible restrooms nearby and clear signage pointing the way to the kayak launch, David found the setup welcoming and easy to navigate. He was eager to try the adaptive features on his own.
The BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch includes a transfer bench and an overhead grab bar to guide him to his kayak. “The design is genius,” David noted as he moved from his wheelchair onto the boarding bench. As he slid himself into the kayak using the overhead grab straps, he was able to grab his paddles and use the pull bars to pull himself into the river. Moments later, he was gliding across the river, waving his paddles in the air with joy.
The Design Scope of BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch at Seven Islands Park
- gangway, 8x60’, dual rail
- combo gangway/chute, 60'
- bulkhead mounting angle kit
- (1) floating dock, 8'2"x20', 16" freeboard
- (1) floating dock, 8'2"x16'4", 16" freeboard
- (1) floating dock, 8'2"x25', 16" freeboard
- (1) diverter dock, 8'2"x16'4", 16" freeboard
- rub rail
- corner guards
- dock-to-dock hinge attachment
- dock-to-dock threshold strips (4)
- dock-to-dock mending plate
- toe kick
- fishing pier rail (with mesh panels)
- cleats, 10"
- kayak launch, 16'4" single entry
- adaptive boarding kit
As David paddled, he took in the breathtaking scenery. The park’s 416 acres are a haven for wildlife, including more than 190 species of birds. Great blue herons waded in the shallows, while a bald eagle soared overhead. “It’s like stepping into another world,” he said. “The water brings you closer to nature in a way that’s impossible to describe.”
The experience wasn’t just about the adventure. For David, it was a moment of healing and empowerment. “Being out here reminds me of everything I’m capable of,” he said. “The water has this incredible ability to renew your spirit.”
The Head of the Tennessee Initiative
Seven Islands State Birding Park’s accessible kayak launch is part of a broader effort to make outdoor recreation available to everyone. The Head of the Tennessee River Initiative promotes the health of the French Broad and Holston Rivers by creating greater public access to the river, and shoreline protection from Douglas and Cherokee Dams to the Head of the Tennessee River. The park’s trails, water access points, and educational programs reflect a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that visitors of all abilities can connect with nature. Enjoyment and protection of Tennessee’s waterways are valuable investments for local communities and their future, making East Tennessee a great place to live, work, and visit.
For paddlers like David, the adaptive kayak launch is more than a piece of equipment—it’s a gateway to freedom. As he pulled his kayak back to the dock later that morning, his smile was brighter than the sunlit water around him. “I’ll be back for some fishing, too,” he promised. “This is just the beginning.”
“This project is a joint partnership of TVA, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Legacy Parks Foundation, Tennessee State Parks, City of Knoxville, Knox County, and BoardSafe Docks. There are a lot of stakeholders involved and the planning takes a little bit of time. Everybody shares the value of getting people on the river, so it’s a great project,” said Carol Evans, Executive Director of the Legacy Parks Foundation.
The Tennessee River project was announced in 2023 at the annual Legacy Parks Luncheon. The 20-mile river trail will start at Seven Islands State Birding Park on the French Broad River and end in Downtown Knoxville. Several accessible BoardSafe Kayak Launches are already designed and approved and will be installed along the water trail beginning at Seven Islands, heading downriver to Cruze Landing and Asbury Landing, creating access and exit points with 5- to 7-mile intervals. Future launches will be designed and developed until the 20-mile stretch is fully accessible and reaches downtown Knoxville.
To learn more about Seven Islands State Birding Park or to plan your visit, explore Tennessee State Parks’ website.
For more details about BoardSafe’s adaptive docks, accessible fishing piers, ADA gangways, and pedestrian bridges that connect people to nature and open doors to accessible recreation, visit BoardSafeDocks.com or call 610-899-0286. BoardSafe Docks can help you improve your waterfront and your community. Accessible adventures await!
New Year = New Adventures from BoardSafe Docks
The start of a new year often heralds the start of a new life, at least in part. The excitement of the celebration usually wells up into resolutions to take action to make one a better person. It's also an opportunity to drop a few more items into the bucket list of things we want to see, places we want to visit, and adventures we want to experience.
For the differently-abled person, that bucket may appear shallow or completely empty. The results of an accident or serious health issue can leave us believing life has passed us by or our world has shrunk to a boring cinder. BoardSafe Docks takes pride in helping people—especially mobility-challenged individuals—discover or rediscover outdoor adventures that can enrich their lives.
BoardSafe Docks' innovative products provide safe, adaptive access to waterways of various types in exciting locations, opening up the great outdoors to everyone. An individual who thought they couldn't get out on the water due to mobility limitations can now join family and friends in fishing, paddling, birding, and just leisurely floating along, taking in the sights and sounds of local waterways. Family activities can again become a reality in the great outdoors!
A differently-abled person is still a full person deserving of the pleasures of life. Thanks to groups like Team River Runner and other adaptive sports groups, paddlers can join like-minded adventurers and meet new friends.
Here are some articles about how BoardSafe Docks' products and projects have reached into the bucket and crossed off an adaptive list item.
Adaptive Kayak Launch Brings Joy to Team River Runner
The Evolution of Kayaking and Access for All
BoardSafe Spokesman and Accessible Sports Advocate Ken Ryno Keeps Chugging Along
Minsi Lake’s Adaptive Kayak Launch and Fishing Piers 1 Year Later
Including More Paddlers With an Accessible Kayak Launch
Beaver Creek Flotilla: Building Community and So Much More
Chester Frost Park’s New 80-ft. Gangway, Accessible Fishing Pier, Courtesy Docks
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.
Tulsa’s Adaptive Kayak Launch: A Model of Accessibility & Innovation
The City of Tulsa, Oklahoma, has recently unveiled an exciting new way for residents and visitors to experience the scenic waters on Zink Lake. Thanks to a collaboration between the City of Tulsa and the River Parks Authority, and funding from the Improve Our Tulsa initiative, the newly-installed BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch ensures everyone can enjoy Tulsa’s natural beauty—regardless of mobility challenges. Guests can bring their kayak or paddleboard, or rent one nearby to access their outdoor adventure.
This state-of-the-art launch, created by BoardSafe Docks, is designed to set new standards for accessibility and inclusion. Located on the east bank of Zink Lake near 19th and Riverside Drive, the launch combines advanced engineering with thoughtful design to create a safe and welcoming space for all paddlers.
Innovative Engineering Meets Unique Challenges
Constructing a kayak launch on the Arkansas River presented specific challenges due to floodplain restrictions. The design required a robust, elevated structure that could withstand environmental demands while remaining fully accessible.
BoardSafe Docks tackled this challenge by designing a 100-foot gangway and chute supported by a steel cantilevered deck system outside the 100-year floodplain. This durable, ADA-compliant floating dock system ensures safety, stability, and seamless water access for users of all abilities.
Designed for Inclusion and Accessibility
The adaptive kayak launch reflects BoardSafe’s mission to enhance freedom, dignity, and participation in water sports for individuals with mobility challenges. Key features include:
- ADA-Compliant Gangway A gently-sloped pathway provides easy wheelchair access from land to water.
- Spacious Kayak Chute A secure cradle stabilizes kayaks, including those with outriggers, ensuring safe entry and exit.
- Floating Dock Made of durable aluminum, the dock features ample wheelchair maneuverability space, complete with a safety-enhancing toe kick.
- Tiered Boarding Bench with Roll Cage A supportive design aids users in transitioning from wheelchairs to kayaks with confidence and ease.
Click this link for a video review of Tulsa’s kayak launch: facebook.com/share/v/uSK5bSUJESYxaNKD/
A Commitment to Community and Recreation
This adaptive launch is more than just infrastructure—it’s a commitment to inclusivity. By enabling safe, accessible water recreation, Tulsa’s new kayak launch fosters community connections and encourages outdoor activity for everyone, including adaptive paddlers.
To celebrate the launch, Tulsa hosted a community event in collaboration with the Pott County Kayak Club. This event showcased the facility’s accessibility while promoting awareness and support for individuals with mobility impairments, inspiring participants to embrace the joy of kayaking. View video highlights from the event here: Tulsa Kayak Launch Video.
BoardSafe Docks: A Trusted Leader in Accessibility Solutions
With over 20 years of experience, BoardSafe Docks specializes in aluminum-welded floating dock systems tailored to meet diverse needs. Their expertise in adaptive features has made them a leader in enhancing accessibility and outdoor recreation across the U.S.
BoardSafe’s key contributions to Tulsa’s launch included:
- foundation and structural engineering.
- a 10’ x 30’ cantilevered deck.
- a 100-foot ADA-compliant gangway/kayak chute.
- adaptive features that included two Clip-A-Launch systems, an adaptive boarding kit, and three floating dock segments.
Why Choose BoardSafe Docks?
BoardSafe Docks stands out for its commitment to quality, innovation, and inclusion. When working with BoardSafe, you receive:
- Expertise Decades of experience in custom dock design for unique conditions.
- Customization Tailored solutions for fluctuating tides, currents, and water levels.
- Innovation High-quality materials and cutting-edge designs that ensure durability and functionality.
- Strong Partnerships Collaborative approaches with clients, engineers, and architects to achieve project goals.
- BoadSafe’s Customer Service unmatched in the dock manufacturing industry.
If your community is seeking to improve accessibility with a custom floating dock system, BoardSafe Docks can deliver proven solutions that enhance freedom and dignity for all users. Contact us today at BoardSafeDocks.com or give us a call at 610-899-0286 to explore how we can bring inclusive water access to your waterfront project.
#AccessibleRecreation #AdaptiveKayakLaunch #CityofTulsa #RiverParksAuthority #UniversalAccess #AccessYourAdventure @BoardSafeDocks
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