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.
Altoona, IA, Celebrates the Addition of an Accessible Kayak Launch at Spring Creek Park
A groundbreaking ceremony on Monday, April 22, 2024, celebrated a new park amenity at Spring Creek Park in Altoona, IA. The newly-installed BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch provides universal access to paddlers who enjoy kayaking and canoeing.
The boat launch project was partially funded by a $20,000 Prairie Meadows grant. Prairie Meadows is one of only two nonprofit casinos in the U.S., and for almost 30 years, they have averaged more than $27 million per year in supporting the arts, culture, healthcare, education, and infrastructure initiatives across central Iowa.
The universal access kayak launch at Spring Creek Park offers paddlers with disabilities the ability to enter and exit their kayak using adaptive features designed and manufactured by BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA. The inclusive amenities found in the adaptive launch are life-changing for those who need them, and also make accessing the vessel easier for beginning paddlers, children, seniors, and anyone with mobility challenges and limitations. The features allow for easy boarding of the vessel, and the cradle launch keeps the kayak stable, enabling paddlers to keep their feet dry during the entering and exit process. What keeps most paddlers from kayaking and canoeing is the challenge of getting in and out of the vessel; slipping, sliding, and tipping over are not a concern when boarding from a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch.
Monday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony was organized by city officials and celebrated the first-of-its-kind launch in their area. They’re hoping it will encourage other towns and communities to do the same. The mayor provided a demonstration of the launch, showing how easy it will be for park users to get in and out of their kayak or canoe.
“Paddling at the park increases park visitor’s connection to the water, to our community, and each other,” reported Town Mayor Dean O’Connor. Future phases at Spring Creek Park will add trails, fishing piers, and additional recreational amenities.
Watch the mayor demonstrate the launch here:
https://x.com/CityofAltoonaIA/status/1782513174601703548
The new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch is located on the south pond of Spring Creek Park, near the intersection of Northwest 80th Street and 30th Street Southeast in Altoona, IA. The fully-inclusive kayak launch will improve the user experience for those looking to get out on the water and propel around the lake. Fishing is common at the lake, where the south pond is reported to be up to 45 feet deep and hosts a variety of fish, including catfish, bluegill, bass, and crappie.
For more information about BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch, Accessible Fishing Piers, Gangways, and Pedestrian Bridges, please view our projects at BoardSafeDocks.com or contact us at 610-899-0286. We specialize in guiding our customers through accessibility projects and help communities connect paddlers with nature and the great outdoors. Let us help you #AccessYourAdventure!
Accessibility Brings Canal Experience to Everyone
BoardSafe Docks was excited to participate in the NYS Canals Forum, “Accessibility on the Canalway,” at Monroe Community College, in Rochester, NY, where more than 170 people participated.
Tom Warchol of BoardSafe discussed accessible kayaking opportunities on the canal and their benefits to paddlers of all abilities. Rivertowns that invest in universal access kayak launches experience economic benefits that boost economies because scenic canals and historical waterways draw tourists. Universal access includes everyone and opens doors to outdoor recreation for people who may have been excluded from participating in the past.
The accessibility forum was open to municipal leaders, community planners, developers, and anyone interested in learning about improving access along the historic canal system. Its goal is to ensure that paddlers of all abilities have the full canal experience and ensure that paddlers with disabilities and mobility limitations can safely and easily access recreation opportunities near and on the water.
In 2025, the Erie Canal will be celebrating its 200th anniversary, and NYS is looking to support businesses and municipalities in making the historic Canal accessible to all. Read more about the forum: Celebration of 200 years on Erie Canal ensures accessible recreation for the future.
BoardSafe Docks is happy to be part of the canal’s accessibility story with our Adaptive Kayak Launch designed to include paddlers of all abilities and improve the paddling experience for all people who enjoy paddling on the canalway. To learn more about BoardSafe’s adaptive kayak launch, accessible fishing piers, and other water access products, contact BoardSafe Docks for more information at 610-899-0286.
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.
Benefits of Investing in a BoardSafe Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch
It's a common misconception that an accessible kayak launch is ONLY intended for people with mobility impairments. The truth is that an accessible launch benefits the entire community and assists people of all abilities with accessing the water. Able-bodied paddlers love an accessible launch because it offers a simple and dry way to enter the water. BoardSafe’s launch also helps novice paddlers and families with young children learn how to enter a kayak and paddle safely. The accessibility features also benefit people with minor impairments, such as a bad knee or hip.
How does the launch attract more paddlers?
BoardSafe Docks recently installed a launch in Canton, New York. When we asked the parks director how the launch affected kayaking at that site, she reported that the new accessible launch increased their park’s visitation by a factor of 3. Entering and exiting kayaks and canoes and launching them into the water is often the most difficult part of the sport. When a launch system offers safe and stable entry to the water, it appeals to its users and enhances the paddling experience for people who use the launch. It also keeps them coming back.
Nearly 20% of the U.S. population live with a form of disability, and approximately 12% live with a mobility disability. This is a sizable portion of our population who still want to enjoy recreating on the water with family and friends. This is why the features of the BoardSafe launch have such an appeal.
Economic benefits of BoardSafe’s accessible and adaptive kayak launch
BoardSafe was recently asked how new paddle craft launches and access points impact the local economies. This link points to several resources that provide statistics and studies on the economic benefits of water trails.
Water trails boost local economy
Included in the above link is a PowerPoint presentation by the Georgia River Network. Its message does a nice job of discussing the “Granola Myth.” This myth addresses the perception that new infrastructure (like a kayak launch) offers little in return to the community; implying that people using the launch are packing their granola, water, etc., and not spending money in local communities. However, the facts are that, on average, $55 is spent per person for kayakers and canoers (Reference the Ohio Census data). The statistic was mirrored in a study conducted by the New York State Canals Corporation on kayakers visiting the Erie Canal. The number increases from $55 to nearly $250 for out-of-town visitors.
The OIA Report is a national report that provides statistics for all types of outdoor industry recreation, revenue, and jobs created by outdoor sports. It is worth taking a look at their statistics on economic impact because the report breaks this information down by state.
Three reasons inclusive water trails are important
- Including underserved groups and paddlers with disabilities improves access for everyone.
- When more people have great places to go that meet their unique needs, there is bound to be less conflict among different types of trail users.
- The process of developing inclusive water trails is an excellent investment in building a vibrant, healthy, cohesive community.
The investment in an accessible kayak launch—particularly one built of aluminum, composite, non-polluting flotation, and stainless steel—will pay dividends to communities for years to come.
BoardSafe is a leading provider of innovative access solutions that specializes in the design, fabrication, and installation of floating docks, gangways, pedestrian bridges, adaptive kayak launches, and accessible fishing piers that 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. Our Adaptive Kayak Launch with features specific to persons with disabilities will serve your whole community. Its universal design will enhance your waterfront and provide access to all people who wish to get out and paddle with family and friends.
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.