New BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch at Hellenberg Park, Monroe MI
The City of Monroe is proud to announce the opening of a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch at Hellenberg Park, giving paddlers of all ages and abilities a safer, easier way to access the River Raisin.
Located at 1313 E. Front Street, Hellenberg Park is already a favorite destination for boating, fishing, and outdoor play. In addition to the new accessible launch, the park features a large parking area for small watercraft, a basketball court, green space for volleyball and other land sports, and plentiful fishing opportunities from the shore and on the water.
City crews completed the installation of the new launch and the foundation connecting the launch to the land. The accessible launch was designed with adaptive features to make kayaking accessible for everyone, from first-time paddlers to those with mobility challenges. The system provides a stable, supportive kayak cradle that allows users to enter and exit their kayaks with confidence.
Key features of the launch at Hellenberg Park include:
- 36-foot aluminum gangway/chute with safety toe kick.
- 8' x 16' floating dock with composite decking.
- Clip-A-Launch 16S system with adaptive bench, pullout seat, and overhead grab bar with hand straps.
- plastic-encapsulated floats for long-term stability.
- instructional sign and guy wire cable system for added safety.
The City of Monroe, founded in 1785, has always been a community shaped by its waterways. Once a natural crossroads for the Potawatomi Tribe, French missionaries, fur traders, and early settlers, the city continues to welcome visitors with its rich history and natural beauty. Just a short distance from the River Raisin National Battlefield Park, Hellenberg Park’s new adaptive launch adds another way to connect with the river and the community’s outdoor heritage.
With the new addition of a BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch, Monroe reaffirms its commitment to accessibility, recreation, and preserving the River Raisin as a place for all to enjoy.
City crew members were able to install the required foundation and install the launch that offers paddlers and kayak fishermen access to the River Raisin. The launch with adaptive features offers paddlers of all abilities a new perspective on the water.
BoardSafe Docks brings a tangible and lasting value to communities. Here are the key areas of impact:
Accessibility & Inclusion
A BoardSafe system provides safe water access for people of all ages and abilities, including those with mobility challenges, seniors, veterans, and beginners. Our systems transform paddling into a truly inclusive recreational activity. Our universal design standards ensure equal participation for everyone.
Health & Wellness
- BoardSafe systems encourage outdoor recreation, exercise, and stress relief through paddling.
- Expanding opportunities for adaptive sports and therapeutic programs.
- Strengthening mental health by connecting people with nature and water.
Community Engagement
- Creates a gathering place where families, friends, and community groups can participate together.
- Supports local nonprofits, adaptive paddling organizations, and youth programs.
- Builds civic pride by demonstrating a community’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.
Economic Impact
- Attracts tourism by drawing paddlers, adaptive athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Boosts nearby businesses (restaurants, shops, outfitters, lodging) with increased visitor traffic.
- Enhances the appeal of parks and waterfronts, raising property and community value.
Environmental Stewardship
- Encourages people to experience rivers, lakes, and waterfronts firsthand, building appreciation for natural resources.
- Promotes sustainable recreation with low environmental impact.
Cultural & Historical Connection
- Strengthens community ties to local waterways, which are often tied to history, culture, and identity.
- Offers residents and visitors a new way to explore heritage sites from the water.
Contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 for information on making your water access entry points more accessible to all.
Warrior’s Path State Park Improves Accessibility to Fort Patrick Henry Lake, TN
Warriors’ Path State Park is proud to announce the installation of their brand-new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch and Accessible Fishing Pier, which is officially open and ready for adventure.
This fully accessible launch, located at the park marina on Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir, is part of a larger project that also includes an accessible fishing pier. This dual hybrid system provides universal access to all visitors looking to access the water for kayaking and fishing.
The Uniqueness of the Amenity
What makes this accessible amenity specialized is its location in the park, accessibility to the water, and the ability to rent kayaks and other non-motorized vessels at the park’s location.
- This accessible system is located at the park's marina on Fort Patrick Henry Lake. The location also includes boat ramps, including one specifically for campers.
- The BoardSafe launch offers universal access to all users and offers adaptive features that allow paddlers with disabilities a safer entry into and exit from their vessels.
- Vessel rentals: The marina offers kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and pedal boats for rent, which offer a variety of choices to draw visitors to the park. Guests are also able to bring their own vessel.
- Free launching and use of the fishing pier: Visitors who have their own kayaks and fishing equipment can use this park amenity free of charge. A fishing license is required to fish on the lake.
Components of the Dual System (Kayak Launch and Fishing Pier)
The 16-ft. x 32-ft. fishing platform includes the following BoardSafe proprietary components:
Product Quantity: Size
Single rail gangway 1: 4’ x 32’
Kayak Chute 1: 4’2’’ x 32’
Bulkhead Mounting Angle Kit 1: 9’
Floating Dock 4: 8’2’’ x 16’4’’
Fishing Rail 1: 48’
Dock-to-Dock Hinge Attachment 1: 9’
Mending Plate 5: 1’4’’
Dock to Dock Threshold Strip 1: 52’
Clip-A-Launch 1: 6’10’’ x 16’4”
Adaptive Boarding Kit 1
Support Arm 1: 32’
Precast Concrete Blocks 3: 2.6’ x 2.6’ x 5’
Positive Community Impact
The launch was well-received by the community and park visitors in July 2025, as indicated by social media posts on the park's Facebook page. Visitors praised the new feature as a "super nice" addition that improves the kayaking experience.
Rhonda Ready Bishop posted to Warrior’s Path Facebook Page, “Thank you so much for the kayak launch! We used it this morning and it was amazing!”
Pleasure boating is very popular on Patrick Henry Reservoir, with life jackets being provided courtesy of Friends of Warriors Path. The park has several floats scheduled for this fall on its calendar. Whether you’re casting a line or paddling out, there’s even more to explore and enjoy on the water. More info can be obtained at the park office at 423-239-8531. Come visit this new park amenity!
#WarriorsPathStatePark #TennesseeStateParks #GetOutsideTN #KayakLaunch #FishingDock #FortPatrickHenryLake #AccessibleKayaking #AccessibleFIshing
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 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.
Waddington NY Pioneers Accessibility with BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch
Waddington, New York, has significantly promoted equity and accessibility by installing a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch at the Whitaker Park Boat Launch on the St. Lawrence River. This initiative reflects the town's commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy the beauty and recreational opportunities on the St. Lawrence River.
A Vision Inspired by a Neighboring Community
Waddington’s journey towards installing an accessible kayak launch began in 2022 after witnessing a similar project in nearby Canton, NY. Canton had installed a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, which caught the attention of Waddington's community leaders. Inspired by the positive impact it had on accessibility, Waddington set out on its own mission to bring a similar launch to its residents and community.
Collaboration and Planning
Over the course of two years, Waddington worked closely with BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA, a company specializing in adaptive and accessible outdoor recreation products. BoardSafe assisted with the permit applications and design concepts for three potential locations within the town. After careful consideration and planning, Whitaker Park was chosen as the ideal site for their first new accessible kayak launch.
In 2024, Waddington received the necessary funding to move forward with the project. The town contracted with BoardSafe to manufacture and install the kayak launch, which features a 16-foot-long gangway and kayak chute, and an 8-by-16-foot floating dock equipped with a 16-foot BoardSafe Clip-A-Launch. The installation is supported by two precast concrete blocks, supplied by BoardSafe, that serve as the bulkhead foundation.
Community Effort and Installation
The installation of the kayak launch in late June was a true community effort, with town employees Chris, Jeff, Nate, and Caleb working alongside BoardSafe to set the blocks and complete the installation. Their dedication and teamwork ensured that the project was completed efficiently and to the highest standards.
Enhancing Outdoor Access
The new adaptive kayak launch at Whitaker Park not only opens up the St. Lawrence River to individuals with physical disabilities, it also reinforces Waddington's reputation as a premier destination for outdoor recreation. The park is already well-known for its world-class smallmouth bass fishing and is the site of the BassMaster Elite tournament, which will take place from August 15–18, 2024.
By investing in this accessible infrastructure, Waddington is making a powerful statement about the importance of inclusivity and the right of all people to enjoy the natural environment. The town's leaders, including Mayor Mike Zabrobelny, have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life, demonstrating a commitment to equity that will benefit the community for years to come.
A Model for Other Communities
Waddington's successful installation of their adaptive kayak launch serves as a model for other communities looking to enhance accessibility and promote outdoor activities for everyone. It provides nearby towns with a model and a vision to explore similar projects, and demonstrates what thoughtful planning, collaboration, and community involvement can have in creating more inclusive public spaces.
As the new kayak launch welcomes paddlers of all abilities, Waddington stands as a shining example of how small towns can lead the way in making the great outdoors accessible to all.
To learn more about BoardSafe Docks’ additional projects and capabilities, view our “About Us” video here:
BoardSafe Docks: Manufacturer of Marinas, Rowing Centers, Adaptive Launches, Gangways & Bridge
For more information about this project and others, or for a consultation, visit us at boardsafedocks.com or call 610-899-0286.
Monongahela River Wharf Offers Accessibility with BoardSafe Kayak Launch
Riverside Wharf Park, located in the small suburb of Brownsville and nestled along the Monongahela River, plays a key part in Brownsville’s community. The wharf is within walking distance from town and offers fishing, a public boat launch, and a relaxing place to read a book or watch activities on the water. Access to the waters of the Monongahela River was limited for many residents, especially those with physical disabilities before the borough’s partnership with BoardSafe Docks. Renowned for our commitment to accessibility, BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA, designed and manufactured Brownsville’s state-of-the-art adaptive kayak launch and accessible floating dock system. The dock now provides boating, paddling, and fishing access from Brownsville’s historic wharf. The dock fulfills a 10-year vision that Brownsville Borough had for providing accessible boating access to their wharf.
The Monongahela River played a significant role in Pittsburgh’s industrial and economic development, particularly during the “steel era.” As recent as 2013, “the Mon” was recognized as River of the Year for its scenic beauty, fishing spots, and boating opportunities. The river uniquely flows from south to north, and meets with the Allegheny River at its confluence to form the Ohio River in downtown Pittsburgh.
Brownsville’s new dock and kayak launch is more than just a piece of infrastructure—it symbolizes inclusivity and progress in the borough. Designed with various adaptive features, the kayak launch ensures that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy the freedom and joy of kayaking. The well-equipped site offers an ADA gangway that provides a gentle, easy pitch down to the water where people in wheelchairs can access the 100 feet of floating docks and the adaptive kayak launch. The accessible launch includes a stabilizing cradle for safe and easy access in and out of the kayak, an adaptive kit with a step-down bench, overhead grab bar, hand straps, and pull bars that make it easy for individuals to move from their wheelchair into their kayak.
Megan, a local resident who had been an avid kayaker before an accident left her with limited mobility, was one of the first to use the new kayak launch. As she paddled out onto the river for the first time in years, she felt a wave of emotions wash over her: freedom, empowerment, and a deep connection to nature. "It's incredible to be back on the water," she said with joy in her eyes. "This launch allows me to kayak again, and it’s something I really enjoy!"
BoardSafe expects the impact of the adaptive kayak launch to ripple through Brownsville just as it does in other communities. There is hope for schools and community groups to organize kayak outings, and for people of all ages and abilities to come together to enjoy paddling on the Monongahela. The borough hopes the launch area will become a hub of activity and foster new friendships in the community.
BoardSafe Docks' innovative design and commitment to accessibility garnered attention from Brownsville Borough and other nearby towns with the vision to explore similar projects. The success story unfolding along the Monongahela River inspires others looking to enhance riverfront communities.
Brownsville’s riverfront access is more than a facility—it’s a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a vision of inclusivity and accessibility. It demonstrates that when barriers are removed, everyone can share in the beauty and adventure of nature. As kayakers of all abilities glide across the river, the spirit of unity and progress that has built the launch will continue to flow through the town.
Scope of Work on the Monongahela River Wharf Project
The project included
- 100 feet of floating dock installed on the Monongahela River.
- a BoardSafe Clip-A-Launch and Adaptive Boarding Kit for kayakers with limited mobility.
- a 30-ft-long accessible gangway with a handrail.
- a 30-ft long support arm to temporarily support the dock until piles are installed.
BoardSafe fast-tracked the project timeline for the borough to have it installed in time for Brownsville’s RiverFest on July, 5th, 2024. BoardSafe’s expertise and experience with similar projects allowed us to design, draft, fabricate, and install the project in less than 3 weeks.
Key stakeholders involved in the project responsible for seeing it through to completion were Mike Walters of the Brownsville Borough and McMillen Engineering, who assisted with the DNR and Army Corps of Engineers permit applications. Kevin Jones and his remarkable team of installation experts from Blue Water Docks of Chattanooga, TN, installed the floating courtesy dock, gangway, and kayak launch.
BoardSafe Docks believes our products can improve lifestyles for communities that enjoy recreating on the water and those looking for accessible and adaptive recreation. BoardSafe understands the value true accessibility brings to communities. Ask any adaptive kayaker about their feelings of enjoyment, liberation, and empowerment after they complete a paddle. Many will tell you they cannot wait to get back out on the water! Kayaking promotes healthy living, connects friends and families with nature, and encourages paddlers to be good stewards, caring for our natural resources.
BoardSafe values the partnerships we’ve developed and appreciates the opportunity to develop our customer’s visions and turn them into legacies of waterfront inclusivity for generations to come. Call us at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com and allow us to #ACCESS YOUR ADVENTURE!
King, Wisconsin, Enhances Access to Its Lake
BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA, the industry leader in adaptive and inclusive universal access solutions, recently worked with the town of King, Wisconsin, to provide an accessible and adaptive kayak and canoe launch. The innovative product is intentionally designed, engineered, and manufactured to provide improved access to the water, ensuring that everyone—regardless of physical ability—can enjoy kayaking and canoeing on their lake.
For many years, the BoardSafe Kayak Launch has revolutionized how people participate in non-motorized boating access, making it significantly easier for paddlers to get in and out of their vessels and access bodies of water. Communities that invest in BoardSafe's floating dock system recognize the tremendous value their launch brings to towns. The launch system fosters inclusivity, enhances the user’s experience, and improves the quality of life for residents and visitors who need and appreciate the launch’s specialized features. By prioritizing accessibility, BoardSafe Docks opens waterways to a wider audience and sets a new standard for community engagement and recreational infrastructure.
Chain of Lakes, Wisconsin
The town of King is located in the northeastern section of Lincoln County, Wisconsin. King is a popular destination with numerous fishing and boating opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Along with its natural attractions, King is known for its many resorts and campgrounds. The accessible and adaptive launch system will attract users and visitors looking for ease of use when kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
King’s project profile
The BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch includes the following features:
- One 4-foot by 12-foot ADA gangway and kayak chute combination
- aluminum construction
- aluminum decking on the gangway
- toe kick on both sides of the gangway for added protection
- bulkhead mounting kit and attachment hardware to attach to the concrete foundation
- One 8-foot by 16-foot aluminum-welded floating dock
- aluminum welded construction (more structural and durable than wood or plastic)
- composite decking; maintenance-free
- plastic encapsulated floats; non-polluting
- One Clip-A-Launch 165
- aluminum slide-down bench and pullout seat
- overhead grab bar with hand straps and pull bars
- instructional signs for proper use of the launch’s features
- The precast foundation system includes (2) 2.5’ x 2.5’ x 5’ concrete blocks approximately 4500 pounds each
How do I determine which launch design is best for my site?
BoardSafe Docks has several launch configurations available to our customers. Our well-known customer service and design assistance help customers determine which launch system will provide the optimal solution, best location, and greatest access to their waterfront. Review the link here to view one of 20 possible launch configurations that may work for your launch site.
As parks, lakes, rivers, and other outdoor facilities work to improve accessibility for all, they turn to BoardSafe’s Kayak Launch as a launch system for everyone to enjoy. Additional launch systems can be found here: BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch Locations.
For more ideas and solutions for your waterfront project, kayak launch, fishing pier, or commercial floating dock project, call 610-899-0286 or visit boardsafedocks.com.
ADA-Compliant BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch Installed at Grand Marais, MN
Grand Marais, Minnesota, announced the installation of a new BoardSafe ADA Adaptive Kayak Launch at the Grand Marais Recreation Park Boat Landing on Lake Superior. The improvements include adding a kayak and canoe launch and floating dock, stormwater management practices, an aquatic invasive species stall, a walkable breakwater, and the removal of the public works facility building, all supported by their partners from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Grand Marais’ Chamber of Commerce, and the City Council Park Board. These improved amenities will enhance the outdoor experience for all visitors and attract visitors to the park and lake.
The adaptive launch was designed, engineered, and manufactured by BoardSafe Docks and coordinated with Dave Tersteeg, the Recreation Parks Manager, who feels this one-of-a-kind launch will be a game-changer on their lake for paddlers with limited mobility. The accessible project includes
- (1) 8x16 floating dock.
- (1) 16-ft. clip-a-launch.
- (1) adaptive kit, roll cage with overhead grab bar, and boarding bench.
- (1) 36-ft. x 4-ft. single rail gangway.
- (1) 36-ft. chute.
- bulkhead mounting angle.
- directional sign.
Other improvements to the location include a new boat launch, improved parking, and accessible restrooms welcoming people of all abilities to come out and enjoy the water.
WTIP shared the following article about the new accessible amenity at the park:
ADA-compliant kayak dock installed at Grand Marais Recreation Park boat landing.
Recent data from the Research News – Outdoor Industry Association shows that the popularity of kayaking and paddle sports continues to grow. Their data specific to kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding, found a record number of 37.9 million Americans engaged in paddlesports during 2020, adding 2.5 million new paddlers to America’s waterways. COVID may have contributed to the increase, but a few years later, these numbers are here to stay and continue to grow. The growth in kayaking, kayak fishing, and other paddlesports, has increased the number of paddlers seeking launch sites that offer access to all, especially people with physical disabilities and mobility limitations. Unfortunately, many access points exclude paddlers with disabilities and limited mobility because their infrastructure is outdated or the sites lack the necessary adaptive features to make them truly inclusive launch sites.
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.
BoardSafe Docks is a nationally recognized manufacturer of floating dock systems and a trusted expert who provides education and guidance when planning and designing inclusive water access products, specifically our highly-requested adaptive kayak launch and adaptive fishing pier.
To discuss your inclusive project, or for help designing your non-motorized water access site, contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 or through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
NJASLA Annual Meeting Conference on January 28-30, 2024
BoardSafe Docks invites you to join us at the NJASLA Annual Meeting Conference on January 28-30, 2024 at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City, NJ!
This year’s theme “ASLA125: Past + Future”, celebrates the rich legacy of the American Society of Landscape Architects and embraces innovations for the years ahead. The annual conference creates a unique atmosphere of learning, inspiration, and connections to lead the way for the future of landscape architecture.
Please stop by the Premier Sponsor Booth in the exhibit hall to meet the team from BoardSafe Docks. We look forward to seeing you there!
REGISTER TODAY! IT’S ONLY 5 DAYS AWAY! NJASLA 2024 - CONEXSYS Registration
Happy Thanksgiving from BoardSafe Docks!
As we prepare to celebrate the season of Thanksgiving and reflect on the blessings of the past year, BoardSafe Docks would like to recognize our customers for their patronage, loyalty, and trust. We are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve customers who have allowed us to transform many waterfronts into areas that provide accessibility for all.
BoardSafe prides itself on unmatched customer service paired with the highest quality of design, engineering, and manufacturing services. We are truly blessed with our BoardSafe family and have grown a multi-faceted team dedicated to our customers and the communities we serve. Our many years of experience, and the significant solutions we’ve offered to the marine industry, have allowed us to be recognized as the premier manufacturer of durable, sustainable, and accessible marine products.
This Thanksgiving and always, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our customers for allowing us to carry out our vision of changing lives and transforming communities with products that provide universal access. BoardSafe’s Team wishes you all a safe and blessed Thanksgiving!
With Gratitude and Appreciation from the Team at BoardSafe Docks
