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.
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.
2 BoardSafe Docks on Knox County Water Trail on Beautiful Beaver Creek
Mayor Glenn Jacobs is proud to announce the formation and investment in formally establishing the Knox County Water Trail on beautiful Beaver Creek. This initiative is focused on clearing, cleaning, and caring for a 44-mile stretch of navigable water across five communities between Clayton Park in Halls and Melton Hill in Hardin Valley. BoardSafe Docks designed, built, and installed two Accessible Kayak Launches.
Beaver Creek ADA Accessible Drop-In Locations:
2136 W Emory Rd.
Knoxville, TN 37849
7221 Harrell Rd.
Knoxville, TN 37931
Read more about this exciting BoardSafe project: BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launches “Huge Asset” to Beaver Creek, TN, Project
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.
For information, inquiries, or to schedule a phone or Zoom consultation, please contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 or through their website @ BoardSafeDocks.com.
BoardSafe Docks Presents at Fox River Summit, Burlington, WI
BoardSafeDocks invites you to join us at the 2024 Fox River Summit on Thursday, March 14, 2024, in Burlington, WI.
Tom Warchol, BoardSafe Partner, will present information on “The Value of Investing in Universal Access Kayak Launches for Paddlers with Disabilities.”
Learn how improving accessibility enhances the user experience for all.
Watch here: Adaptive Kayak Launch at Lake Chaminwood
The Mission of the Fox River Ecosystem Partnership has been to promote, preserve, protect, and enhance the natural, cultural, economic, and recreational resources of Fox River, which flows for almost 200 miles from Wisconsin into Illinois. It’s an annual gathering of organizations, municipalities, citizens, and stakeholders across the Fox River Watershed.
In 2023, the National Park Service recognized the Fabulous Fox! Water Trail as part of the National Water Trails System.
More information about the water trail is available here: The Fabulous Fox! Water Trail Website
Information and Registration are Now Open: southeastfoxriver.org
If you’re interested in learning more about water trails, mark March 14, 2024, on your calendar and join us at the Summit!
2024 Tennessee RiverLine Summit Presented by BoardSafe Docks
BoardSafe Docks is pleased to partner with the Tennessee RiverLine to support the development of North America’s next great regional trail system.
The 2024 Summit is happening now at the Lodge at Pickwick Landing in Hardin County, TN.
The interactive forum offers planning sessions, outdoor excursions, water trail workshops, accessibility awareness, and networking opportunities.
Tennessee RiverLine’s vision of a continuous water trail experience begins where the Tennessee River forms in Knoxville, TN, to its confluence with the Ohio River in Paducah, KY. It includes 652 miles of paddle trails and touches the four states of Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, and Kentucky. Improving accessibility to the Tennessee River is a dream for anyone who enjoys kayaking, canoeing, and spending time on the water. Their full vision is laid out in the booklet here: Tennessee RiverLine Vision Booklet.pdf
Accessible recreation by BoardSafe
The desire for accessible recreation in and by the water offers new economic opportunities, encourages ecological stewardship and conservation, draws people to the water, and promotes better health for its citizens. Kayaking, canoeing, and fishing opportunities connect people to their communities. The advantage of ensuring that entry points offer universal access ensures that paddlers with disabilities and mobility limitations can be included in activities along with family and friends. Educating others about universal access has become a significant part of BoardSafe’s Mission. Our goal is to assist others in understanding that “accessible” is not synonymous with “adaptive.” Paddlers with physical disabilities and mobility limitations require additional adaptive features to enter their kayaks and get out on the water. When BoardSafe’s Kayak Launch was designed, BoardSafe’s team collaborated with a group of paddlers in wheelchairs who provided input into the launch’s features. These meetings ensured the necessary features were not overlooked and would be developed to the extent necessary to provide the accommodations paddlers in wheelchairs require for safe entry into their vessels. Equitable access ensures all paddlers may enjoy the beauty, diversity, and history of the Tennessee River and beyond.
What makes BoardSafe unique?
BoardSafe’s unique applications for improving accessibility with their adaptive features, paired with the design integrity of their floating dock system, continue to make them the industry leader and expert in accessibility for all. Ultimately, the user experience is improved for everyone who uses their launch systems for kayaking or fishing.
BoardSafe’s manufacturing takes place in Fleetwood, PA, but as a licensed contractor in Tennessee, they have a strong presence helping to improve accessibility with their adaptive kayak launches and fishing piers. Their pedestrian bridges, gangways, and rowing docks also improve access points throughout the state.
Representing BoardSafe Docks at RiverLine’s Summit are Tom Warchol, a BoardSafe Partner, Kelly Bealls from the Business Development Team, and Bill Bogdan, an adaptive sports enthusiast who has partnered with BoardSafe to share the important message about universal access for all.
Helping non-disabled people gain a better understanding of the features required for inclusive fishing and paddling is necessary because, all too often, launches are built and deemed to be accessible when they’re not. When a paddler in a wheelchair can enter their vessel safely and with minimal assistance, their experience is life-changing. The paddling experience is improved for the adaptive paddler as well as those kayaking with them. Here is a video of Bill using BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch independently: Adaptive Kayak Launch at Lake Chaminwood
Accessibility in the outdoors
Tennessee RiverLine is a catalyst for new investments in outdoor recreation and infrastructure that will create jobs and stimulate the economy. Successful paddle trails should ensure proper accessibility that includes features for paddlers in wheelchairs. Paddling and kayak fishing are a great part of their rehabilitation and exercise routine and it gets them out on the water with everyone else.
When accessibility is at the forefront of the design process, the paddling experience will be improved for all users. Communities investing in accessible infrastructure will benefit economically and ecologically, will improve public health, and draw more people to the water.
BoardSafe prides itself on developing a trusting and respectful relationship with our clients throughout the manufacturing process. Our team understands our products’ impact on communities and has witnessed our product designs improve lifestyles for the adaptive and recreation-loving communities we serve. We are proud of the partnerships we develop with our customers and appreciate the opportunity to develop our customers’ visions and turn them into legacies of waterfront inclusivity for generations to come. Through the power of partnerships and collaborative planning, great things are happening in Tennessee!
BoardSafe Docks is the industry leader in adaptive kayak launches and fishing piers, gangways and pedestrian bridges, rowing centers, and marinas. We specialize in design consultation, engineering, and manufacturing, and will work with you to ensure your project is accessible to the widest range of users. You may learn more about BoardSafe Dock’s projects through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com or by calling 610-899-0286.
Shawnee Mission Park Marina Upgrades: Easy Access to Canoes, Kayaks Debuted at Popular Johnson County Park
Have you seen Shawnee Mission Park Marina’s updates? The largest park in Johnson County and the most visited park in the entire state of Kansas has reopened after a $1.6 million renovation.
The popular marina at Johnson County’s Shawnee Mission Park opened last summer after undergoing extensive renovations that began in November of 2022. The popular new features include a massive new ADA-accessible dock, a new ticketing booth, dock-level bathrooms, upgraded security cameras, and a storage facility for the marina’s 85 boats.
The final addition to the park’s impressive amenities is a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch. Visitors can rent kayaks, tandem kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal boats to launch into the lake. The inclusive features offered by BoardSafe’s kayak launch provide all paddlers with a steady platform to enter and exit their boats.
The feature-rich launch provides universal access with its ADA gangway, tiered, step-down boarding bench, a roll-cage offering an overhead grab bar, grab straps to lower oneself into their vessel, and a stabilizing kayak chute with pull bars for a stable entry onto the water. Everyone knows that getting in and out of a kayak is often the most challenging part of kayaking. BoardSafe’s inclusive features improve the user experience for everyone—young and old, novice and experienced, paddlers with mobility limitations, and even paddlers in wheelchairs.
Long-term planning and preparation paid off
The project cost was approved as part of the county’s capital improvement plan for 2022. However, the marina improvements serve as part of the department’s long-term Shawnee Mission Park Master Plan, which dates back to 2003. Johnson County cares about its community and is committed to achieving its long-term goal of providing a state-of-the-art, inclusive recreation facility for the community.
What’s new at the park?
The park had an aging marina and storage building. The new building underwent significant improvements for accessibility. The improvement project also included the addition of new restrooms and a customer service counter. The park offers a lake, beach, beach house, marina, and floating docks for boating, paddling, and fishing.
The aquatic manager for the Johnson County Park and Recreation District reported that thousands of boaters use the marina’s rental services each season, and they are fortunate to bring the best to their community. High rates of usage support how facilities such as these are important draws for communities. Close-to-home recreation brings communities together and provides inclusive recreation for all, no matter the ability or disability.
Paddling builds inclusive communities and improves quality of life
As the county better accommodates all visitors, many local leaders have recognized the popularity of paddling and the need to provide safe and convenient access in and out of the water. BoardSafe’s well-known inclusive adaptive kayak launch allows people in wheelchairs to safely transition into their kayak and get out on the water. The launch system has been designed and engineered with input from adaptive paddlers to identify features that will improve the paddling experience for all users and ensure that family and friends can paddle together.
Economic benefits of building an accessible kayak launch
- Promotes tourism A kayak launch can attract tourists to the area and increase annual visitors to the trail. Visitor spending will increase revenue to shops, restaurants, gas stations, and hotels and appeal to nature, history, and culture enthusiasts.
- Job creation The construction and operation of the kayak launch can contribute to the economic development of the community by creating jobs for residents, such as construction workers, small business owners, kayak rental operators, and paddling guides. River and lake communities attract and retain skilled workers and businesses. Economic development inspires entrepreneurship and generates tax revenues for municipalities and states.
- Increases property value Inclusive access to a kayak launch can increase property values in the area, which can benefit local property owners and help spur economic development. Homeowners desire close-to-home recreation and are looking to connect with friends, family, and nature through outdoor recreation.
- Offers inclusive water access An accessible kayak launch will encourage more people to participate in outdoor activities on the water. An inclusive launch brings family and friends together and offers a healthy activity for people with mobility limitations and disabilities. As more disabled paddling groups look for recreational opportunities, a fully inclusive launch will draw adaptive paddlers to the water. In turn, this will benefit the local economy by promoting spending on outdoor gear, related activities, and services.
- Offers increased recreational opportunities An accessible kayak launch can provide new recreational opportunities for residents, which can improve the overall quality of life in a community. A gentle paddle down the river and sightseeing through calm waters on lakes offer associated health benefits and improve the overall quality of life.
- Environmental benefits Accessible kayak launches can benefit the environment by helping to protect local waterways and wildlife by maintaining the health of our most valuable natural and cultural resource.
Working together achieved results
For this extensive project, the Johnson County Parks and Recreation Department worked with design firm SFS Architecture on the project’s concept design. BoardSafe was brought into the planning for their experience and expertise in designing and building accessible floating docks. They understand the impact projects like these have on communities. With over 30 years of construction experience and 20+ years as the industry leader in dock designing, engineering, and manufacturing, BoardSafe knows that each location and installation presents distinct challenges. Water flows, tidal fluctuations, and environmental and habitat considerations, all need to be considered
when selecting the optimal dock configuration for each site. How the products fasten to the shore must allow for movement under varying marine and traffic usages. These variations—as well as ecological considerations—are carefully calculated.
BoardSafe has designed over 20 different launch configurations that can be customized to their customer’s launch site, which makes BoardSafe stand out in the marine industry.
Click here to view the 20 different kayak launch layouts that will affect pricing.
For this particular project, launch option #2 was selected with a 4 x 20 single rail gangway and a 20’ kayak chute. BoardSafe takes pride in knowing we put our customers on the right path to obtaining the best launch configuration for their site.
BoardSafe was pleased to help Shawnee Mission Park achieve their accessibility goals. To learn more about the most durable and accessible aluminum floating launch system for your location, contact BoardSafeDocks.com today at 610-899-0286. BoardSafe’s team will help you find the ideal solution for improved accessibility to and around the water.
Orange Park, FL, and BoardSafe Docks Foster Inclusive Water Recreation with Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch
January 17, 2024: Rob Bradley Park in Orange Park, FL, and BoardSafe Docks, a leading innovator in waterfront access solutions, are proud to announce the installation of a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch. This state-of-the-art launch offers unparalleled access to all paddlers and is designed to include paddlers in wheelchairs or with other mobility limitations, ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of kayaking and canoeing with family and friends.
Rob Bradley Conservation Park was deeded to the Town of Orange Park in December 2019. The plan is to preserve the beautiful park and help protect the water quality along the lake. The park officially opened in 2023 after receiving grant funds to add and improve park amenities. Culverts, sewer connections, nature trails, restrooms, observation areas, and an accessible kayak launch are all on the list to help conserve the park and preserve its natural setting. The local town is committed to using taxpayer money in a manner that will benefit its residents by offering close-to-home recreational amenities. The town’s Park and Recreation Department and Public Works will work together to maintain the park’s setting and keep it safe and clean for their community. The beauty of the park and its natural amenities will be enjoyed by all Orange Park residents for many years to come.
BoardSafe’s accessible launch is a testament to its team’s commitment to providing the highest quality product, from design through manufacturing. Their inclusive launch system provides a gateway to water-based recreation for individuals who previously faced barriers due to physical limitations. Orange Park is excited to offer this accessible amenity to their community. The key features of the launch include:
- ADA-Compliant Gangway—ensuring ease of access for individuals with mobility aids such as wheelchairs.
- Kayak Chute—facilitating a smooth and safe entry of kayaks and canoes into the water.
- Step-Down Boarding Bench—allowing users to guide themselves down a slightly-sloped, 4-step bench to transfer into their kayak or canoe with a minimal drop into their vessel.
- Overhead Grab Bars, Grab Straps, and Side Pull Bars—additional supportive features that assist users while boarding and disembarking their vessels, and enhance safe and stable entry and exit to and from the water.
BoardSafe’s innovative design empowers individuals to embark on water adventures with independence and freedom, fostering a sense of inclusion within the community.
"We are thrilled to introduce the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch to Orange Park," said Scott Tihansky, Design and Engineering at BoardSafe. "Our goal is to break down barriers and ensure that everyone can access and enjoy paddling on the water, regardless of ability. This launch is a game-changer, and provides a safe and user-friendly platform for individuals with varying needs to experience the thrill of kayaking and canoeing."
The Town of Orange Park encourages its community to explore and experience the ease of use and increased accessibility offered by BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch. Whether used by seasoned paddlers or beginners, this launch promises an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all.
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.
For information, inquiries, or to schedule a phone or Zoom consultation, please contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 or through their website @ BoardSafeDocks.com.