Accessible Launch with Adaptive Features Welcomed in Couderay, WI
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Fisheries, recently installed two BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launches along the Couderay River in Couderay and Radisson, Wisconsin. The installation was part of the collaboration between Wisconsin DNR and BoardSafe Docks. Their goal was to provide inclusive access to the river for paddlers with disabilities, fishermen, residents, and visitors, who enjoy the prolific fishing and paddling in their clean and nature-filled waters.
Wisconsin DNR developed a plan to provide paddle craft access to the Couderay River where it did not previously exist. They had two sites in mind for a put-in and take-out, but each location had design challenges that needed to be overcome. “Working with BoardSafe allowed us to identify creative designs and solutions for each site that made this project possible,” said Max Wolter, project coordinator for the adaptive launches.
Below is BoardSafe’s drawing of Couderay’s project:
The Couderay project included:
- customer-installed bulkhead
- 5-foot by 20-foot aluminum gangway
- one (1) 8 x 16 aluminum floating dock, composite decking, plastic encapsulated flotation, and BoardSafe proprietary extrusions
- BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch with Boarding Kit
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Videos of the Couderay and Radisson project can be viewed here:
- Couderay River Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch in Couderay Wisconsin
- Adaptive and Accessible Kayak Launches Installed for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
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The uniqueness of this accessible project
The Couderay River never had formal access points for paddle craft. BoardSafe Docks, a leader in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of accessible floating docks, came up with a design solution that would allow the Wisconsin DNR to offer its communities and tourists accessible locations to fish and kayak and enjoy the beauty of the river. BoardSafe’s solution allows people of all abilities to confidently plan a day trip down the river knowing they will have quality infrastructure for launching and taking out their vessels.
Couderay serves as headquarters for an organization called "Fishing Has No Boundaries," which hosts fishing events for people living with disabilities. Fishing Has No Boundaries was an appreciated contributing partner to the project and a stakeholder in wanting to provide inclusive launches for the disabled angling community. The adaptive launches installed in Couderay and Radisson will help them better serve their mission.
What adaptive features make the launches accessible to all?
The adaptive features found in the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch make it accessible to a broader range of users. The launch was designed for adaptive paddlers with input from paddlers in wheelchairs who were looking for an easier way to access the water. The empowering features include an ADA-compliant gangway (less than a 1/12 pitch), a protective toe-kick around the perimeter of the floating dock, an adaptive roll cage that starts with a seat equal to the height of a wheelchair and includes a 3.5-inch step-down bench, a pullout, bleacher-style seat, an overhead grab bar that allows the user to slide down either side of the bench of their preference, overhead grab straps to lower oneself into the vessel, a cradle that keeps the kayak level and stable upon entry, and pull-bars to enter into the water with a controlled entry.
What makes Couderay worth a visit?
Couderay is a small, sleepy town with less than 100 permanent, year-round residents as noted in the latest U.S. Census. The name "Couderay" was derived from the name given to the area by French explorers: Lac Courte Oreilles.
Kayaking isn’t the only attraction along the Couderay River; kayak fishing is another very popular attraction in the area. Their new inclusive launches will offer access to outdoor enthusiasts, residents, and visitors, who enjoy the prolific fishing and paddling along their beautiful waterway.
Nature abounds in Couderay, where they keep their waters clean for nature lovers and work hard to protect their fish and wildlife. The following videos capture the beauty offered to its visitors:
- Mama Bear and 3 Cubs - Chippewa Flowage, Couderay Wi.
- Couderay Waters Watershed Paddle Tour Couderay Waters Watershed Paddle Tour protects, preserves, and promotes the natural history and beauty of the water.
Visitors to the area may also wish to visit the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame, the LumberJack World Championships, and Al Capone’s Hideout, all close by.
BoardSafe Docks understands the benefits and impact their adaptive launch system offers to communities and park systems. The feature-rich launch offers safe, easy, and inclusive access to the water. It is fitted for both kayaks and canoes and has an available option designed to work for SUPS.
BoardSafe Docks is the trusted expert for those who desire only the best-engineered and highest-quality aluminum floating docks, gangways, and launch systems. BoardSafe’s design, engineering, and quality manufacturing make them an industry leader for commercial aluminum floating docks, adaptive kayak launches, gangways, and pedestrian bridges. Their product line is recognized by customers seeking long-term value, reliability, and durability in order to access the great outdoors.
For more information about this project and others, visit us at boardsafedocks.com or call us at 610-899-0286.
Radisson, WI, Residents Gain ADA Access with BoardSafe Docks
Along the Couderay River in Radisson, Wisconsin, an adaptive and accessible kayak launch was installed in October 2022. It provides universal access to the river regardless of ability or disability and has numerous ADA-inspired features.
The installation was the culmination of a 2-year collaboration between BoardSafe Docks and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Fisheries.
Wisconsin DNR has been committed to improving outdoor recreation opportunities for people of all abilities. Whether on land or on the water, the DNR is hopeful that everyone will find their niche and enjoy new recreational opportunities. The DNR has been promoting access, inclusion, equity, and healthy living, and encouraging residents and visitors to explore the great outdoors. The BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch will help increase dignity and freedom for individuals with mobility issues and build closer connections among friends and family while increasing accessibility and participation for adaptive paddlers at their parks. See photos below.
Not only does the kayak launch help paddlers into the water; there is also a 120-foot-long accessible composite boardwalk that is leading from a trailhead access area. The boardwalk is supported by fiberglass pilings and consists of prefabricated aluminum deck sections. The frame of the boardwalk is an aluminum tube frame with composite decking featuring the TimberStrong fastening system.
There is an aluminum toe kick along the boardwalk as well as an integrated hinge for attachment to the gangway. The boardwalk leads to a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch on the Couderay River.
The aluminum gangway measures 5’ wide x 8’ long and is attached to an aluminum floating dock that is 8’ x 16’. The kayak launch has BoardSafe’s adaptive boarding kit for an easy transition in and out of vessels.
- Installed October 2022
- 120-foot-long composite boardwalk
- Fiberglass pilings
- Prefabricated aluminum deck sections
- Aluminum tube frame
- Composite decking featuring the TimberStrong fastening system
- Aluminum toe kick
- Integrated hinge for attachment of gangway
- BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch
- 5’ x 8’ gangway
- 8’ x 16’ floating dock
- BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch
- Adaptive boarding kit
The uniqueness of this accessible project
The accessibility of this project not only assists adaptive paddlers getting to the kayak launch, into their vessel, and out onto the water by utilizing the adaptive features designed to accommodate paddlers in wheelchairs, but boasts a 120-foot long accessible, composite boardwalk leading from the trailhead access area to the river. The 120-ft. boardwalk is supported by fiberglass pilings with prefabricated aluminum deck sections. The frame of the boardwalk is an aluminum tube frame using composite decking connected with the hidden, TimberStrong fastening system. An aluminum, protective toe kick is found along the boardwalk’s edge and an integrated hinge attaches the gangway to its concrete foundation. This custom walkway offers accessibility to the adaptive launch inviting those with physical limitations a safer and easier way to access and paddler on the river. This project models inclusivity and accessibility for all.
Radisson’s hope
Radisson is a small town with less than 300 permanent, year-round residents noted by the latest US Census. Why would a small town invest in a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch? BoardSafe Docks understands the benefits and impact their adaptive launch system offers to communities and park systems. It offers the safe, easy, and inclusive access to the water. The inclusive launch is fitted for kayaks, canoes, and can also work for SUPS. Kayaking isn’t the only attraction along Radisson’s waterway; kayak fishing is another very popular attraction to the park. Radisson may now offer their inclusive access to various outdoor enthusiasts and become a local treasure for residents and visitors to enjoy for generations to come.
Benefits of River Access
River access points are known to be gateways of opportunities for paddlers to enjoy the experience of being on the water. Accessible river access offers socialization; it brings people together and affords the ability to connect families and friends to nature and to their community.
River access points also offer economic benefit to local communties. Investments in river access can increase visitor spending, create jobs, and support local businesses and government. Diverse partnerships have the potential to develop along river communities and there is demonstrated success for communities who’ve made the investment.
A second Adaptive Kayak Launch was also installed in Couderay, WI, and can be viewed here.
The adaptive features found in BoardSafe’s kayak launch offer safer and easier access to the water and work for a wider range of users. Features typically include a paved pathway from the parking lot to the launch, an ADA-compliant gangway (less than a 1/12 pitch), a protective toe-kick around the perimeter of the floating dock, an adaptive roll cage that includes a 3.5-inch step-down bench, a pullout seat, an overhead grab bar that allows the user to slide down either side of the bench of their preference, optional overhead grab straps to lower oneself into the vessel, a cradle the keeps the kayak level and stable upon entry, and pull bars to enter into the water through a controlled entry.
"The aluminum floating kayak launch system has unique adaptive features that offer paddlers with disabilities or mobility limitations the opportunity to get safely from their wheelchair and into a kayak and back out again," says Scott Tihansky, of BoardSafe Docks.
BoardSafe Docks works regularly with adaptive paddling groups, veteran groups, park and recreation departments, governmental leaders, landscape architects, and design engineers looking to make their waterfront accessible to all.
BoardSafe Docks is the trusted expert for those who desire only the best-engineered and highest-quality aluminum floating docks, gangways, and launch systems.
If you’re looking to make your community's parks, rivers, lakes, and other natural areas more accessible for people of all abilities, contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286. You may also visit the BoardSafeDocks.com website to see other project profiles to learn how BoardSafe Docks has the capability to design, engineer, and manufacture accessible and adaptive products for those who appreciate the outdoors and want to ensure all will be able to access the great outdoors.
Testimonial
Just made it down to see the fully completed project at Radisson. WOW! Both look fantastic. I’m going to be showing these off to lots of folks around the state and telling the tale of how nice it was working with your outfit. I have a feeling you’ll be back in Wisconsin for many more jobs!
Please let me know if there is any other follow-up needed from us or if there are any snafus with getting payments. I’m with you all the way to the finish line on this one! Very relieved and happy to have the big install step done though!
P Max H. Wolter, Fisheries Biologist
Hayward Service Center
To make your community's parks, rivers, lakes, and other natural areas more accessible for all abilities, visit BoardSafeDocks.com.
Couderay, WI, Installs Safe, Accessible BoardSafe Kayak Launch
In October 2022, BoardSafe Docks installed a new adaptive kayak launch providing all abilities universal access to enjoy the outdoors. The floating dock and adaptive launch system include a 5-foot by 20-foot gangway, an 8 x 16 aluminum floating dock, and a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch with Boarding Kit (ADA-inspired features).
The adaptive kayak launch system is anchored into the bank with a concrete bulkhead that is 12 feet long. A bulkhead mounting kit and turnbuckle with cable system help secure the gangway floating dock and the 5‘ x 20‘ gangway leads to the floating dock and adaptive kit. The aluminum floating dock has an aluminum frame with composite lumber decking that measures 8 feet wide by 16 feet long. On the river side of the floating dock is a BoardSafe adaptive kayak launch that is 16 feet long and includes an accessible boarding kit, pull-out bench, overhead grab bars, and an instructional sign for a convenient transition on and off of the water.
Couderay, WI
- Installed October 2022
- Customer-installed bulkhead
- 5-foot by 20-foot gangway
- One (1) 8' x 16' floating dock
- BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch with Boarding Kit
Wisconsin Gains Two BoardSafe Aluminum Dock Systems
BoardSafe is the trusted expert for water access projects for federal, state, and county parks and recreation management.
In October 2022, BoardSafe concluded a 2-year collaboration with Wisconsin’s Bureau of Fisheries Management to design, manufacture, and install both the Couderay and Radisson projects.
The Radisson project was installed in October 2022 and includes a 120-foot-long composite boardwalk from a trailhead access area. The boardwalk is supported by fiberglass pilings and consists of prefabricated aluminum deck sections. The frame of the boardwalk is an aluminum tube frame with composite decking featuring the TimberStrong fastening system. There is an aluminum toe kick along the boardwalk as well as an integrated hinge for attachment to the gangway.
Click here for more information.
The boardwalk leads to a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch on the Couderay River. The aluminum gangway measures 5’ wide x 8’ long and is attached to an aluminum floating dock that is 8’ x 16’.
The kayak launch has BoardSafe’s adaptive boarding kit for an easy transition in and out of vessels.
Located further upstream is Couderay, WI.
This adaptive kayak launch system is anchored into the bank with a concrete bulkhead that is 12 feet long. A bulkhead mounting kit and turnbuckle with cable system help secure the gangway floating dock, and the 5‘ x 20‘ gangway leads to the floating dock and adaptive kit.
Click here for more information.
The aluminum floating dock has an aluminum frame with composite lumber decking that measures 8 feet wide by 16 feet long. On the river side of the floating dock is a BoardSafe adaptive kayak launch that is 16 feet long and includes an accessible boarding kit, pull-out bench, overhead grab bars, and an instructional sign for a convenient transition on and off the water.
BoardSafe Docks and The Allentown Waterfront Project
In October 2022, BoardSafe Docks completed the installation of a custom floating dock and gangway on the Lehigh River in Allentown, PA. The Allentown Waterfront Project is a redevelopment effort to revitalize the area, and the space along the river is the key feature for the mix of retail, commercial, and residential development.
Here is an introductory video of the project:
The aluminum floating dock is 8’ x 80’, and it has a commercial-quality aluminum frame and composite decking. The 80-foot dock was manufactured in 4 sections.
A Custom landing and hub for the top of the gangway were built into the bank with two large arms securing the dock. Between the large floating dock and the gangway is a custom floating dock at the bottom of the gangway to allow for movement as the river changes elevations.
On the floating dock are a BoardSafe Kayak Launch, Kayak racks for storage of 3 kayaks per rack system, a dock bumper system, and adjustable cleats along the dock.
Watch this closeup tour of the exciting new aluminum floating dock and kayak launch:
D&L Pedestrian Bridge Completed in Catasauqua, PA
Following the historic transportation route of Anthracite coal from mine to market, the D&L Trail connects people to towns and cities across five counties from Wilkes-Barre to Bristol, Pennsylvania. With 144 miles open and available to trail users and plans for more than 165 miles, individuals across the Corridor can access the trail via 54 trailheads up and down eastern Pennsylvania and connect to 55 parks.
With funding from the PA Department of Conservation & Natural Resources, PA Department of Community & Economic Development, and Northampton County, 1.5 miles of trail were improved and opened in September 2022.
65-Foot Aluminum Pedestrian Bridge Installed
The newly-installed pedestrian bridge provides access for walkers, hikes, and bikers from the Deily Coal Yard Trailhead to the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers National Corridor in Catasauqua, PA.
- The aluminum bridge measures 6’9” wide x 65’ long. It spans a small creek. The frame of the bridge is aluminum and the decking is composite lumber.
- BoardSafe Docks was able to place the bridge on the previous bridge foundation to save time and money.
- The aluminum bridge has a custom epoxy paint as requested by the customer.
Minsi Lake’s Adaptive Kayak Launch and Fishing Piers 1 Year Later
Minsi Lake is a 117-acre reservoir owned by the Commonwealth of PA and leased to Northampton County Parks and Recreation. It’s been part of the county park system since 1975 and is one of only three public lakes in the Lehigh Valley area. The lake was drained in 2017, allowing the PA Fish and Boat Commission to make repairs to the dam and spillway. The park reopened in September 2021 as an accessible and inclusive destination for both kayaking and fishing.
One year ago, a ribbon-cutting ceremony unveiled Minsi Lake’s BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch and Accessible Fishing Piers. Officials recognized and promoted the efforts of many stakeholders supporting the project over the last few years. Promoting the adaptive launch and fishing piers at the ribbon-cutting ceremony were
- Lamont McClure, Northampton County Executive
- Bryan Cope, Superintendent of Parks and Recreation
- Mario Scavello, PA State Senator
- Joe Emrick, PA State Representative
- John Mauser, Friends of Minsi Lake
- George White, Team River Runner
- Scott Tihansky, BoardSafe Docks
- Ken Ryno, Adaptive Paddler and Advocate for Adaptive Kayak Launches
Upon Minsi’s reopening of the lake, the county’s goal was “to make sure everyone had the opportunity to participate in the wonderful outdoor bounties that Northampton County has to offer," said County Executive Lamont McClure.
Northampton County Parks and Recreation wanted to bring Lake Minsi back to its original glory and make it accessible for everyone. The adaptive features of the kayak launch work for a wider range of users by offering safer and easier access to the water. Features include a paved pathway from the parking lot to the launch, an ADA-compliant gangway (less than a 1/12 pitch), a protective toe-kick around the perimeter of the floating dock, an adaptive roll cage that includes a 3.5-inch step-down bench, a pullout seat, an overhead grab bar that allows the user to slide down either side of the bench of their preference, optional overhead grab straps to lower oneself into the vessel, a cradle the keeps the kayak level and stable upon entry, and pull bars to enter the water through a controlled entry.
"The aluminum floating dock system installed at Minsi Lake has unique adaptive features that allow for disabled paddlers to safely get from their wheelchair and into a kayak and back out again," said Scott Tihansky with BoardSafe Docks.
Ken Ryno, an adaptive paddler with Team River Runner and advocate and spokesperson for BoardSafe Docks, promoted the launch’s features. Their relationship began when Ken and a group of adaptive paddlers offered input to BoardSafe’s manufacturing team to identify launch features that are needed and will work specifically for paddlers in wheelchairs.
The continuous advancements in BoardSafe Dock’s adaptive kayak launch have given those with disabilities a sense of normalcy. “When we’re out on the water, we’re like everyone else,” said Ken Ryno, who has enjoyed many years of kayaking on the local lakes. Ken acknowledged that before BoardSafe’s adaptive kayak launch, access to the water was not always easy. It was a struggle and involved a lot of heavy lifting from volunteers to get paddlers in and out of their kayaks and the water. Water access in the past often put the paddlers and volunteers at risk for injury. Adaptive paddlers in the Lehigh and Northampton County regions now have four adaptive launches to choose from: Leaser Lake in Kempton, Beltzville Lake at Preacher’s Camp, Lake Nockamixon at the Tohickon Boat Launch, and Minsi Lake’s West Shore Entrance. The adaptive features found in BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch make access to the water safer and easier for all users.
BoardSafe Docks works regularly with adaptive paddling groups, veterans groups, parks and recreation departments, governmental leaders, landscape architects, and design engineers looking to make their waterfronts accessible to all. While the launch system is designed with adaptive paddlers in mind, it creates safer and easier access for novice paddlers, children, and paddlers with joint and mobility issues looking for an easier way in and out of their vessels. The features and stability offered by BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch are truly a model for universal access to the water.
Kayaking isn’t the only attraction at Minsi Lake’s accessible park. Kayak fishing and fishing from the two accessible fishing piers are other popular attractions at the park.
The Friends of Minsi Lake’s Facebook page displays a never-ending trail of artistic photography that parkgoers see when visiting the park. The Facebook link boasts pictures of birds, wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and people enjoying nature and using the lake’s fishing and paddling opportunities. The photos demonstrate just how much the county’s investment in the park is appreciated and valued by its visitors. Its impact is astounding and a model for other park systems to follow. To view more pictures of the lake, click on the link below:
facebook.com/groups/1907344179400749/?ref=share
Below are just a few of the photographs showing the year-round beauty of the lake. The lake and its amenities are an asset to the PA Fish and Boat Commission and Northampton County. One year later, the stakeholders involved in Minsi’s renewal recognize that it was well worth the efforts to bring the lake and park back to life. Lake Minsi has become a local treasure that is used year-round and will be for generations to come.
Jim Wilson, the Recreation Specialist for Northampton County, explains in this link how BoardSafe’s adaptive kayak launch and accessible floating aluminum fishing piers came to fruition at Minsi Lake and offer access to all community members, regardless of their physical abilities.
Minsi Lake ADA Floating Docks and Accessible Kayak Launch
BoardSafe Docks understands the benefits and impact their adaptive launch system offers communities and park systems. Their inclusive launch is fitted for kayaks, canoes, and SUPS, and gets everyone in the water safely and easily. It is evident that paddlers want close-to-home recreation; safe, easy, and inclusive access to the water; and the ability to connect their families to nature and their local community.
Universal access is key to any program’s success. All too often, accessible docks are built to minimum standards and do not take into consideration the needs and abilities of the disabled paddlers using the launch system. BoardSafe Docks seeks continuous input and feedback from paddling groups and end users, making BoardSafe an industry leader in the design and manufacture of an all-inclusive launch system with specific adaptive features that will work for the widest range of users.
To discuss your project and create a water entry site that offers safe and easy access with inclusive and adaptive features, contact us at 610-899-0286 or through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
New Accessible Adaptive ADA Floating Dock and Launch Access at Wright's Landing Marina in Oswego, NY
In September 2022, the City of Oswego, NY, installed a new adaptive kayak launch, floating dock, and gangway at Wright's Landing Marina. Wright’s Landing is a popular boating destination that provides access to Lake Ontario's prime salmon fishing waters. The launch offers universal accessibility similar to those required by the ADA to ensure that everyone in the community can enjoy paddling outdoors.
The project was competitively bid and BoardSafe was chosen based on their products’ structural durability and best-in-class adaptive features. This was important because the eastern shores of the Great Lakes are subject to strong winds and pounding waves. BoardSafe was hired to design, fabricate, and install the project. The BoardSafe engineers incorporated two existing pilings that were in place from a previous dock, and the gangway was attached to the existing seawall using the BoardSafe bulkhead mounting kit. The floating dock was also designed so power boats can approach it from the side of the concrete boat ramp, while kayakers safely use the opposite side for launching.
The components of the project include:
- 40-foot aluminum gangway and a 40-foot kayak chute
- 60-foot floating dock secured with 2 existing piles
- standard BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak launch
- aluminum gangway attached to the existing seawall using our standard bulkhead mounting kit
Please watch a brief video below, highlighting the installation.
For more information and project profiles, visit BoardSafeDocks.com.
Accessible Boat Launch Helps Disabled Get on the Water in Canton, NY
Kayaking on the open water can be freeing, but for those with disabilities, it can be limited and frustrating.
The Grasse River in Canton, New York, is a favorite spot for kayakers and other paddlers, but until now, it was difficult for adaptive paddlers to enter and exit their craft. In April 2022, BoardSafe Docks and the leaders and concerned non-profits changed all that.
Although there are other ADA-compliant boat launches in the area, the unique BoardSafe kayak launch makes it possible for adaptive paddlers to enter and exit their craft safely by themselves.
For more information about how meaningful and freeing BoardSafe's kayak launch has become in Canton, watch this TV report:
wwnytv.com/2022/09/02/accessible-boat-launch-helps-disabled-get-water
Read more about BoardSafe's adaptive products here.
https://boardsafedocks.com/products/difference-between-adaptive-accessible/
Ames, Iowa, Increases Accessible Amenities at Ada Hayden Heritage Park with a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch
The Ada Hayden Heritage Park, located at 5205 Grand Avenue in Ames, Iowa, just announced the addition of another accessible amenity to its beautiful park. The mayor, city council, Parks and Recreation Commission, and city staff, are pleased with the addition of a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch. This additional amenity adds to the endless recreational opportunities already available at the Ada Hayden Heritage Park. Additional park amenities can be found in the link below:
Ada Hayden Heritage Park | Search All Parks & Facilities | City of Ames, IA
The lake already has a reputation as "a great place in Ames for Kayaks,” and now with their newly-installed adaptive kayak launch, it will be even better. The launch provides adaptive paddlers, including those in wheelchairs or experiencing mobility issues, a safer and easier transition into their canoe or kayak because of the stability and adaptive features it offers to all paddlers.
The city has been planning for the launch since last year, and has done an amazing job seeking and gaining the community’s support for the park's additional accessible amenity.
The adaptive kayak launch project was funded by the city’s Capital Improvement Plan funds, and over $36,000 in grants and fundraising donations through Access Ada Hayden.
A significant portion of the funds for the kayak and canoe launch was donated directly by Ames athletes and local sponsors. They were happy to contribute to a project that would improve access for everyone and improve the Ada Hayden Heritage Park.
Access Ada Hayden was a joint effort among the Skunk River Paddlers, Friends of Ada Hayden Heritage Park, the Outdoor Alliance of Story County, and JAX Outdoor Gear. The money they were able to raise through fundraisers and donations is evidence of the support the city of Ames has from their community. “We started looking at the accessible dock and launch systems early in 2019 to make the lake accessible to all,” said Rick Dietz, a member of the Skunk River Paddlers and primary contact for Access Ada Hayden.
JRM Construction, of Ames, Iowa, was selected to complete the site and concrete work and began excavating around the second week of August 2022. Once the site work was completed, the city’s maintenance staff was able to accept the launch from BoardSafe Docks, who designed, engineered, and manufactured the custom-designed launch. City staff from the Public Works Department received instructions on the easy assembly and installation of the floating launch system.
Joshua Thompson, Ames Parks and Facilities Superintendent, was present for the installation and described the accessible kayak launch as “very easy and straightforward to install.” He said the launch was incredible and well made and offered compliments to BoardSafe Docks for the quality of the kayak launch.
The Board Safe Adaptive Kayak Launch features an aluminum floating dock, an ADA-compliant gangway, and an adaptive kit with specific adaptive features that allow paddlers in wheelchairs the opportunity to enter their kayak safely and easily. The kayak launch cradle stabilizes the canoe or kayak as one enters, and the step-down bench, overhead grab bar, optional grab straps, and grab rails accommodate people with a wide range of physical limitations. Here is an informative video of an adaptive paddler using the launch independently.
“One of our goals in improving our recreational amenities is to ensure all residents can enjoy being outdoors,” said Ames Parks and Recreation Director, Keith Abraham. “We continue to seek ways to expand parks, facilities, and programs to be inclusive, and we encourage everyone to explore our offerings and share ideas with us for new options.”
Watch a demonstration of Ada Hayden’s new launch:
The Ames Parks and Recreation Department manages 38 parks and offers approximately 180 athletic, aquatic, instructional, and wellness programs to residents of the Ames community. Indoor programs are provided year-round at the Community Center and Ames/ISU Ice Arena.
For more information, visit the Ames Parks and Recreation homepage at amesparkrec.org.
The City of Ames has won numerous awards over the years for being a progressive and innovative city. These awards highlight the wonderful aspects of Ames that residents have enjoyed for years. They are known for a stable economy, friendly people, beautiful parks, great shopping, quality schools, growing cultural and entertainment venues, comprehensive healthcare, and acres of recreational opportunities that are available during every season. Throughout Ames, there is evidence of growth, commitment to the environment, and quality of life. Ames is located centrally and conveniently in the heart of Iowa and the Midwest. Iowa State University is located in Ames.
Ames has the feel of a small town but the heart of a big city. Their population is a little more than 65,000. It offers cultural, recreational, educational, business, and entertainment amenities more common in bigger cities. As a growing city, Ames continues to focus on building a strong community filled with opportunities for all. The slogan they’ve become known for is Ames, Iowa, the Smart Choice!
Since 2020, Ames has received many awards and recognition for its progressiveness and improvements:
- #1 River Town of the Year (Iowa Rivers Revival, 2021)
- #1 in the 10 Best States to Retire in 2021 (MoneyRates, 2021)
- #2 - "State Parks That Rival National Parks" (Livability, 2021)
- #5 - "Best Iowa High Schools" (U.S. News & World Report, 2021)
- #21 Most Livable College Towns (SmartAsset, 2021)
- #22 - "Top Cities for Shorter, Better-Paid Hours" (RewardExpert, 2021)
- #37 - "Best Small Cities for Small Businesses" (Go.Verizon, 2021)
- #1 - "10 Best States to Retire in 2021" (MoneyRates, 2021)
Ames Parks and Recreation Department invites the community to a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new accessible kayak/canoe launch recently installed at Ada Hayden Heritage Park. The event will be held at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21, at the north side of the lake at 5205 Grand Ave.
The Parks and Recreation Department is hoping the community stakeholders who offered financial support for the launch will attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony and find the adaptive features a welcome amenity for entering and exiting kayaks. For those using the launch, please post more pictures to the Access Ada Hayden Facebook page, and share with others how these features help enhance the user’s kayaking experience and so spread the word about the adaptive launch.
Click here to read about other BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launches:
- Lake Loramie State Park, OH, Installs Accessible Kayak Boat Launch - BoardSafe Docks
- Minsi Lake Wilderness Area, PA, Proud of Their New ADA-Accessible Kayak Launch - BoardSafe Docks
- Mandarin Park Adaptive Kayak Launch
Communities who are looking to increase accessibility for all paddlers and are considering adding an adaptive kayak and canoe launch to their local lake or stream should click here for more information:
Since every site location and application is just a little bit different, BoardSafe Docks has become the industry expert in location selection, site work, design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation of floating docks, piers, and adaptive kayak and canoe launches.
To discuss your project and learn more about BoardSafe Docks, our specific adaptive features that work for the widest range of users, our durable and long-lasting construction, and long-term maintenance suggestions, please call us at 610-899-0286 or contact us at BoardSafeDocks.com.