BoardSafeDocks and HivePaddleSports Celebrate Tennessee's Outdoors
BoardSafeDocks and HivePaddleSports were proud to join the second annual Outdoors Day on the Hill, hosted by the Tennessee Outdoor Partnership (TOP) on March 24 in Nashville, TN.
With more than 650 members of the General Assembly and the public in attendance, the day brought together the people and organizations shaping the future of outdoor recreation across Tennessee.
Watch video here: Celebrating the 2026 Outdoors Day on the Hill
BoardSafe and Hive are honored to partner with leaders across the state to deliver recreational infrastructure, from floating docks and fishing piers to accessible kayak launches and kayak rental kiosks that connect communities to Tennessee’s incredible lakes, rivers, and streams.
These investments do more than create great experiences outdoors; they prove to
✔️ Drive economic growth
✔️ Enhance quality of life in parks and communities
✔️ Inspire stewardship of natural resources
The impact is real. Tennessee’s outdoor industry generated $15.6 billion in 2024 and supports over 114,000 jobs, ranking #1 in the Southeast and #2 in the nation for 10-year GDP growth in the outdoor recreation sector.
A big thank you to Tennessee Outdoor Partnership (TOP), along with state agencies and partners like Trust for Public Land and The Nature Conservancy in Tennessee, for making this event possible and continuing to move outdoor access forward.
Outdoor recreation isn’t just fun—it’s fundamental to Tennessee’s future.
Events like this allow us to showcase our designs, engineering, and waterfront infrastructure that connects Tennesseans and their visitors to the water for endless adventures in boating, fishing, and kayaking. Thanks again, Tennessee Outdoor Partnership (TOP), for an awesome day on the Hill!
#AccessYourAdventure #OutdoorsTN #OutdoorsDayOnTheHill2026 #TNConservation #TennesseeOutdoorsPartnership #OutdoorRecreation
Traverse City’s Discovery Pier Expands Universal Water Access with BoardSafe Accessible Gangway and Kayak Launch
Traverse City’s Discovery Pier Expands Universal Water Access with BoardSafe Accessible Gangway and Kayak Launch
Discovery Pier in Traverse City, Michigan, is opening new doors to the water and ensuring that people of all ages, needs, and abilities can experience the joy, education, and recreation offered by the Great Lakes.
BoardSafeDocks of Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, is proud to partner with Discovery Pier to support its mission of inclusive access through the installation of a BoardSafe Accessible Gangway and a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch. These new features connect visitors safely and comfortably to accessible fishing docks and on-the-water experiences, reinforcing Discovery Pier’s commitment to welcoming everyone.
The improvements build on Discovery Pier’s existing barrier-free amenities, including accessible parking, sidewalks, and restrooms. Together, these thoughtfully designed features create a seamless experience, from arrival to the water’s edge, so visitors can focus on learning, exploring, and having fun paddling on the water
“We believe that access to our Great Lakes should be available to everyone,” shared Discovery Pier leadership. “There’s a lot of freshwater fun to be discovered on the pier and explored on the water!”
A Community Effort with Lasting Impact
With Phases 2 of the site improvements now complete, Discovery Pier celebrated the many partners who made this vision a reality. Support from legislators, donors, and community organizations played a vital role, including the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, MSU Federal Credit Union, The Oleson Foundation, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and many others dedicated to expanding inclusive outdoor access.
These investments are already making a difference by drawing families, educators, anglers, paddlers, and visitors with disabilities to the waterfront for shared experiences that are both educational and recreational.
Access That Inspires Discovery
The addition of the accessible gangway and adaptive kayak launch ensures Discovery Pier is more than a destination; it’s a place where universal access meets environmental education and outdoor adventure. As more visitors are welcomed to the water, the pier continues to serve as a model for how inclusive design strengthens communities and deepens connections to natural resources.
Visitors are encouraged to stop by Discovery Pier and experience everything it has to offer for a memorable, accessible day on the water.
To learn more about accessible waterfront solutions, visit BoardSafeDocks.com or give us a call at 610-899-0286.
BoardSafeDocks Wishes Our Family, Friends, & Customers a Blessed Christmas!
As the year draws to a close, we had the pleasure of gathering at our Pennsylvania manufacturing plant for a festive holiday luncheon and a heartfelt "Thank you!” to some of our team members in person.
We are deeply grateful for the dedication and expertise of our team, whose contributions in sales, design, engineering, and manufacturing help make our floating dock systems the industry standard for quality and innovation.
During this season of celebration, we want to extend our sincerest thanks to our employees, industry partners, and customers for the opportunity to work together. We are honored by the trust our customers place in us and the unwavering commitment our employees bring to delivering accessible, high-quality designs that have earned us recognition as the nation’s leader in water access solutions.
At BoardSafe, we value the relationships we’ve built and appreciate the time, conversations, and collaborations with those who help us make universal access a reality for communities across the country. Your support makes our work meaningful, and for that, we are truly blessed.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous, safe, and peaceful holiday season!
#BoardSafeDocks #HivePaddleSports #AccessYourAdventure #ExperienceCounts #RelationshipsMatter #BlessedHolidaySeason
ASLA 2025 is Happening Now in New Orleans
The American Society of Landscape Architects 2025 National Conference is happening now in New Orleans! Will we see you there? Stop by BoardSafe’s Booth #1619 in the Exhibit Hall to meet Tom, Kelly, and Dave from BoardSafe Docks and HIVE Paddlesports.
You’ll get to see BoardSafe's Adaptive Kayak Launch and its features that provide universal access for everyone looking to paddle on the water. You can also see our newest innovation, our HIVE Kayak Rental Kiosk, and learn how our sister company is offering convenience to paddlers with our self-service paddlecraft kiosk.
Landscape Architects frequently use a BoardSafe design in waterfront landscapes across the country, improving access and impacting tourism. Come learn how BoardSafe enhances the paddling experience and improves communities!
ASLA 2025 is the largest annual gathering of landscape architects, urban planners, engineers, developers, product suppliers, manufacturers, and other professionals coming together to learn, connect, and gain inspiration. The conference runs Friday, October 10, through Monday, October 13, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, LA.
#ASLA2025 #AccessYourAdventure # BeyondBoundaries #AccessiblePaddling
BoardSafe Paddle Center—Accessible Kayaking in Downtown Pittsburgh
Whether you’re a first-timer paddler or one who is seasoned, the Venture Outdoors Paddle Center by BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA, is open and ready for some summer paddling fun. Venture Outdoors' new concession hub is located just outside the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in downtown Pittsburgh.
Ash Andrews, president and CEO of Venture Outdoors, talks with Daisy Jade of Pittsburgh Today Live, explaining the benefits that BoardSafe’s Floating Dock system brings to Pittsburgh’s residents and guests. You can watch the full interview from the Pittsburgh Today Live show here.
Venture Outdoors Paddle Center offers water access for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and other outdoor educational experiences. Renters can reserve sit-in or sit-on-top, single or tandem kayaks, as well as stand-up paddleboards. The launch provides a “smooth like butter” entry into the Allegheny River, stated Andrews, who demonstrated the launch and spoke about the mission and vision for the new facility. The paddle center’s main focus is on having three accessible kayak launches, plus one launch with additional adaptive features specifically to accommodate paddlers in wheelchairs. The fourth launch is equipped with a boarding bench that is equal to the height of a wheelchair, an overhead grab bar, a step-down bench with a pull-out seat, grab straps and pull bars, and a stable cradle that eliminates the fear of tipping when entering and exiting the vessel.
During the interview, Andrews shared that this is only Phase 1 of the project and stated that Phase II will be completed sometime next year, after some additional fundraising.
Those who are willing to support Phase II of their venture are encouraged to donate through their Adopt-A-Kayak Program. The city is supporting great things happening on its rivers with hopes of drawing more visitors to its waterfront. Venture Outdoors has a mission to remove barriers and provide inclusive programming to all, and their new facility does all that. The link to learn more or donate is found here: ventureoutdoors.org/adopt. For more information about using the facility or registering for special events, you may contact them at 412.255.0564 or [email protected].
Phase II includes replacing the temporary structures on the dock with an aluminum-welded floating boathouse that will provide better safety to employees and allow them to house the organization's kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
The new building will allow Venture Outdoors to increase their recreational offerings and allow for more educational programs right on the water. Donations and support will help them do even greater things and continue to break down barriers to nature in downtown Pittsburgh.
Interested paddlers can check out the Venture Outdoors website for a calendar of events that includes special offerings, group lessons, and even a night paddle!
BoardSafe Docks, the designer, engineer, and manufacturer of Venture Outdoor’s Paddle Center, is recognized for:
- ADA Gangways, aluminum-welded floating dock systems, accessible fishing piers, and adaptive kayak launches that provide accessible and inclusive waterfront experiences for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges. Our products provide universal access for all and offer multiple accommodations, including a boarding bench with a pull-out seat, additional safety features, and a stable boat cradle that facilitates safe and independent access to the water.
- Durable Aluminum Floating Dock Systems: Our floating docks are engineered with high-quality materials, such as marine-grade aluminum, composite decking, and plastic encapsulated flotation, ensuring durability and longevity. Our systems are known for their ability to withstand fluctuating water levels and harsh weather conditions. BoardSafe's floating docks are also praised for their versatility and ease of expansion.
- One-Stop Shop for Waterfront Projects: BoardSafe Docks provides a comprehensive service, handling everything from design and engineering to manufacturing and installation of our products.
- Expertise in Waterfront Accessibility: BoardSafe collaborates with adaptive paddling groups, environmental engineers, landscape architects, and other experts to continuously innovate and improve our accessible products, making us a leading voice in aquatic recreation accessibility.
To learn more, give BoardSafe a call at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch at Lone Star Lake Park, Kansas
Construction of a new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch is complete at Douglas County’s scenic Lone Star Lake Park. This launch is one of several enhancements their Public Works Department is implementing as part of the Open Space Plan initiative.
Funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act allocations, these upgrades aim to make Lone Star Lake Park more accessible and enjoyable for all visitors.
Public Works anticipates unveiling the new accessible kayak launch this summer, offering an improved experience for paddlers of all abilities. Pictures of the new launch shared by Douglas County, Kansas Government can be viewed below.
The new launch is designed for paddlers of all abilities, including those with lower-body physical disabilities and mobility limitations. The launch features an ADA-compliant gangway for wheelchair access, a stable and secure kayak chute, and a floating dock with an adaptive boarding kit that offers features for paddlers who require additional aids and supports to enter and exit their vessel. These features, designed with input from adaptive paddlers, ensure safe and easy entry and exit of kayaking vessels.
The project also includes accessible picnic tables and kayak racks for added accessible conveniences at the park. These additions further contribute to the park's accessibility, encouraging visitors to spend more time enjoying the lake and its surroundings.
BoardSafe Docks says the new launch offers "enhanced freedom, dignity, and participation in water sports for individuals with mobility challenges and limitations. It connects paddlers to the water, and it’s an inclusive activity, making it easier for novice paddlers and those with physical limitations.”
Scope of Work Summary
- 32-ft. gangway and kayak chute
- (1) 8x16 floating dock
- (1) kayak launch with adaptive boarding kit
- bulkhead mounting kit to attach to the customer’s concrete foundation
- the customer supplied the concrete foundation.
The recent installation marks a significant milestone in creating a more inclusive and accessible recreational space for the Douglas County community. The BoardSafe launch at Lone Star Lake Park serves as more than just a physical structure. It acts as a catalyst for community building and social interaction by:
- bringing people together. The accessible design encourages individuals of diverse backgrounds and abilities to share in the joy of kayaking and lake activities. The universal access launch brings families, friends, and individuals together to enjoy paddling on the water, regardless of physical limitations.
- connecting people to nature. By making kayaking more accessible, the launch facilitates a deeper connection with the natural environment. People can experience the beauty of Lone Star Lake firsthand, observe wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of the water.
- encouraging good stewardship. As more people engage with the lake, there's an increased sense of responsibility for its well-being. Users become more aware of the need to protect and preserve natural resources, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship within the community.
The ribbon-cutting for the new accessible kayak launch this summer is highly anticipated, promising an improved experience for all visitors and further strengthening the bond between the Lone Star Lake Park community and its natural environment.
BoardSafe Docks offers safe, stable, and stylish universal access to the water. Paddlers appreciate their benefits and ease of use. Communities appreciate the launch’s ability to bring differently-abled paddlers together to enjoy a group paddle on the lake, provide improved access to the water, and connect paddlers with nature.
To learn how BoardSafe can assist you with creating or improving access to your lake, river, or water trail, contact us at BoardSafeDocks.com or give us a call at 610-899-0286.
BoardSafe & Venture Outdoors Launch Pittsburgh's Premier Paddle Center
BoardSafe Docks is proud to collaborate with Venture Outdoors of Pittsburgh, PA, on an exciting and innovative project: a one-of-a-kind paddle center along the Allegheny River in front of the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. After nearly two years of planning and collaboration, this state-of-the-art floating paddle and rental facility is poised to position Pittsburgh as a leader in urban paddlesports access.
The new paddle center will serve as a downtown hub for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), providing residents and visitors near the convention center with easy access to Pittsburgh’s iconic Three Rivers. With over 75 kayaks and other non-motorized paddle crafts, the center will feature multiple launch areas—including one specifically designed for paddlers in wheelchairs who require additional adaptive features to access the water.
The floating docks will span an impressive 100 feet by 50 feet, creating a vibrant, functional space for recreation right in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh. According to VisitPittsburgh, the concession is expected to boost tourism, drawing both locals and visitors to the waterfront.
Phase One Launching Near Memorial Day
Phase one of the project is slated to open near Memorial Day, marking a major milestone in downtown Pittsburgh’s efforts to expand outdoor recreation opportunities. This launch will open access to nature, particularly for those who live, work, or visit downtown and may not have the time or transportation to venture outside the city to recreate.
Venture Outdoors: Removing Barriers, Creating Access
Venture Outdoors is committed to ensuring that all of its programs are inclusive and meaningful for the community. By removing barriers—both physical and systemic—the organization creates opportunities for people of all backgrounds and abilities to experience the natural beauty in and around the City of Pittsburgh.
Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a curious beginner, Venture Outdoors provides equitable access to nature through kayak rentals, guided outings, paddling classes, and educational events. Learn more about their programs at ventureoutdoors.org or follow them on Facebook. You can also access a program calendar here for outings you may wish to participate in: Outings – Venture Outdoors.
Why Urban Outdoor Spaces Matter
In a busy city like Pittsburgh, not everyone has access to a car—or the time to leave the city—to escape into nature. That’s why local, walkable, outdoor recreation options are essential. Studies show that easy access to nature improves physical and mental health, reduces stress, and supports work-life balance. A central location like the Pittsburgh Convention Center, easily accessible to residents, conference attendees, and tourists alike, makes paddling on Pittsburgh’s rivers more convenient and inviting.
A Collaboration Rooted in Community Impact
While Venture Outdoors was searching for a permanent city base, they also found BoardSafe Docks, a nationally recognized designer, engineer, and manufacturer of aluminum floating dock systems from Eastern PA. Using BoardSafe’s experience in the industry allowed them to share their wishlist and collaborate on a design that would work for their organization and benefit the city, tourism, and local economy.
For close to 2 years, BoardSafe Docks has been working closely with Ash Andrews, Executive Director of Venture Outdoors, and Luke Borowy, Director of Paddlesports, to bring this vision to life. “We love a good partnership,” said Scott Tihansky of BoardSafe Docks. “By working with organizations connected to paddling, local government, and tourism, we’re able to offer a vital service that connects people to nature, enhances connections within communities, and boosts the local economy.”
Known for its expertise in accessible and adaptive waterfront design, BoardSafe Docks creates systems that remove barriers and offer universal access to all. With this new facility, Venture Outdoors and Kayak Pittsburgh will maintain high-quality rental gear and offer safe, memorable experiences for all users. When phase one of the rental facility gears up to open, trying paddle sports within the downtown area won’t get any easier.
Looking Ahead: Phase Two
Venture Outdoors is continuing its fundraising efforts for a second phase of the paddle center, which includes a kayak storage building, classroom space for educational outreach programs, and flexible meeting areas for community events. These additions will further enhance the Paddle Center’s role as a vibrant educational and recreational hub for the city.
Explore More
- Learn more about this project from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: $1.3M kayak hub outside Convention Center 'further positions Pittsburgh as an outdoor destination'
- View a similar project completed by BoardSafe in Austin, TX, and its impact on the city.Texas Rowing Center - the World Class Rowing Center Built by BoardSafe Docks
Let’s Get You on the Water
To find out how BoardSafe Docks can help you create your waterfront access point, adaptive paddle launch, accessible fishing pier, or courtesy boat dock, contact us at (610) 899-0286 or visit us at BoardSafeDocks.com. Let us help you design and build a space that draws people to the water, enhances the paddling experience, connects people to nature, and improves the local economy. #AccessYourAdventure #Kayaking #Paddling #KayakRentals
New Year = New Adventures from BoardSafe Docks
The start of a new year often heralds the start of a new life, at least in part. The excitement of the celebration usually wells up into resolutions to take action to make one a better person. It's also an opportunity to drop a few more items into the bucket list of things we want to see, places we want to visit, and adventures we want to experience.
For the differently-abled person, that bucket may appear shallow or completely empty. The results of an accident or serious health issue can leave us believing life has passed us by or our world has shrunk to a boring cinder. BoardSafe Docks takes pride in helping people—especially mobility-challenged individuals—discover or rediscover outdoor adventures that can enrich their lives.
BoardSafe Docks' innovative products provide safe, adaptive access to waterways of various types in exciting locations, opening up the great outdoors to everyone. An individual who thought they couldn't get out on the water due to mobility limitations can now join family and friends in fishing, paddling, birding, and just leisurely floating along, taking in the sights and sounds of local waterways. Family activities can again become a reality in the great outdoors!
A differently-abled person is still a full person deserving of the pleasures of life. Thanks to groups like Team River Runner and other adaptive sports groups, paddlers can join like-minded adventurers and meet new friends.
Here are some articles about how BoardSafe Docks' products and projects have reached into the bucket and crossed off an adaptive list item.
Adaptive Kayak Launch Brings Joy to Team River Runner
The Evolution of Kayaking and Access for All
BoardSafe Spokesman and Accessible Sports Advocate Ken Ryno Keeps Chugging Along
Minsi Lake’s Adaptive Kayak Launch and Fishing Piers 1 Year Later
Including More Paddlers With an Accessible Kayak Launch
Beaver Creek Flotilla: Building Community and So Much More
Chester Frost Park’s New 80-ft. Gangway, Accessible Fishing Pier, Courtesy Docks
BoardSafe’s Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch, designed for universal access, improves the paddling experience for paddlers of all abilities looking for a safer and easier entrance into the water.
To discuss your project and learn more about BoardSafe Docks and our specific adaptive features that work for the widest range of users, please call us at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
We’re heading back to the NRPA Conference 2024. Are you?
The NRPA Conference is taking place October 8 - October 10 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA. This event is the largest annual gathering of park and recreation professionals in one place, and an excellent opportunity to showcase, network, and learn about products and services in the field of recreation.
Come see BoardSafe Docks in the Exhibit Hall in Booth #2642!
BoardSafe’s kayak launch is designed for universal access and offers great stability with adaptive features. It improves the kayaking experience for paddlers of all abilities. The launch system is designed to accommodate both kayaks and canoes and is a perfect addition to parks, marinas, and waterfronts looking to improve accessibility.
For those looking to enhance their kayaking adventure with a safer, stable, and easy launch system, please stop by booth #2642. Scott and Dave from BoardSafe Docks would love to share information about BoardSafe’s product line and show you the features of an adaptive kayak launch. It’s not too late to register for the NRPA 2024 Annual Conference. We hope to see you there!
#NRPA2024 #WhereYouBelong #UniversalAccess #AccessibleSolutions
We're Counting Down Until #ASLA2024 in D.C.! Will you be there?
BoardSafe Docks is attending the ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture October 6th – 9th in Washington, DC.
The ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture is the largest annual gathering of landscape architecture and allied professionals, all coming together to learn, connect, share knowledge, gain inspiration, and bring value to their practice. The conference offers sessions, professional development, networking opportunities, and a world-class EXPO featuring over 275 vendors showcasing cutting-edge products and services.
Come see BoardSafe Docks in Booth #3757
BoardSafe’s kayak launch is designed for universal access and offers great stability with adaptive features. It improves the kayaking experience for paddlers of all abilities. The launch system is designed to accommodate both kayaks and canoes and is a perfect addition to parks, marinas, and waterfronts looking to improve accessibility.
For those looking to enhance their kayaking adventure with a safer, stable, and easy to launch system, please stop by booth #3757 in the exhibit hall. Tom Warchol and Kelly Beals from BoardSafe Docks would love to share information about BoardSafe’s product line and demonstrate the features of an adaptive kayak launch in person. It’s not too late to register at the ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture. We hope to connect with you there!
#ASLA2024 #BoardSafeDocks #UniversalAccess #AccessibleSolutions