NJASLA Annual Meeting Conference on January 28-30, 2024
BoardSafe Docks invites you to join us at the NJASLA Annual Meeting Conference on January 28-30, 2024 at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City, NJ!
This year’s theme “ASLA125: Past + Future”, celebrates the rich legacy of the American Society of Landscape Architects and embraces innovations for the years ahead. The annual conference creates a unique atmosphere of learning, inspiration, and connections to lead the way for the future of landscape architecture.
Please stop by the Premier Sponsor Booth in the exhibit hall to meet the team from BoardSafe Docks. We look forward to seeing you there!
REGISTER TODAY! IT’S ONLY 5 DAYS AWAY! NJASLA 2024 - CONEXSYS Registration
Happy Thanksgiving from BoardSafe Docks!
As we prepare to celebrate the season of Thanksgiving and reflect on the blessings of the past year, BoardSafe Docks would like to recognize our customers for their patronage, loyalty, and trust. We are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve customers who have allowed us to transform many waterfronts into areas that provide accessibility for all.
BoardSafe prides itself on unmatched customer service paired with the highest quality of design, engineering, and manufacturing services. We are truly blessed with our BoardSafe family and have grown a multi-faceted team dedicated to our customers and the communities we serve. Our many years of experience, and the significant solutions we’ve offered to the marine industry, have allowed us to be recognized as the premier manufacturer of durable, sustainable, and accessible marine products.
This Thanksgiving and always, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our customers for allowing us to carry out our vision of changing lives and transforming communities with products that provide universal access. BoardSafe’s Team wishes you all a safe and blessed Thanksgiving!
With Gratitude and Appreciation from the Team at BoardSafe Docks
BoardSafe Docks—Meet Us Today at the Ohio River Way Summit!
BoardSafe Docks is in Madison, Indiana today, 10/26, at the Ohio River Way Summit. The Summit is happening directly on the river at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, 108 St. Michaels Avenue, Madison, IN 47250.
We’re proud to be one of the sponsors of the Ohio River Way Summit where we’ll be joining a diverse coalition of communities and organizations to discuss how river communities can grow around outdoor recreation.
Stop by our table today and say hello to Kelly Beals from BoardSafe Docks. Kelly will be able to share the benefits to paddlers, along with economic and ecological benefits to communities who invest in a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch and our other water access products.
BoardSafe Docks recognizes outdoor recreation has not always been inclusive. Our team is committed to offering a wide range of water accessibility products. We understand our products’ impact on communities and have witnessed how our accessibility products improve lifestyles for the adaptive and recreation-loving communities they serve. Come see us and learn how we can be part of your water access solution!
You can register for the summit here: https://www.ohioriverway.org/orw-summit
BoardSafe Docks looks forward to meeting you today in Madison!
BoardSafe Docks Provides Paddle Access for Legacy Parks Luncheon
BoardSafe Docks is pleased to provide two accessible kayak launches in advance of the Legacy Parks Luncheon for the Parks on September 29th at Seven Islands State Birding Park. Legacy Parks Foundation is an East Tennessee nonprofit organization working to ensure that their community enjoys exceptional recreational opportunities, natural beauty, and open spaces. They work collaboratively with local stakeholders to promote healthy living, connect friends and families with nature, and provide access to Knox County’s parks and rivers. Value is added to communities when providing close-to-home recreation that is accessible to all.
Below is a rendering of the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak, Canoe, and Boat Launch planned for Seven Islands State Birding Park where the fundraiser will be hosted.
While accessibility projects can be eligible for grant funding and support from local government agencies, community support and financial gifts from donors also play a significant role and are necessary to bring these worthy projects to fruition. The Legacy Parks Luncheon for the Park is their biggest fundraising effort of the year.
An additional BoardSafe Kayak Launch and takeout to be recognized at the luncheon will be installed about 5 miles downriver at Cruze Landing.
The popularity of kayaking is on the rise
According to a report published by the Statista Research Department, nearly 18.6 million Americans went kayaking at least once in 2021, demonstrating an increase in the popularity of paddlesports. In the period 2010–2021, kayaking participation in the United States grew by 87.3 percent. Paddling is an activity that almost everyone can participate in—young and old, novice and experienced, and people with mobility limitations. It’s easy to understand why people are getting hooked on paddle sports.
Kayaking, canoeing, and all paddlesports are truly inclusive recreational activities when launch sites include adaptive features like an ADA gangway, kayak chute, boarding bench, hand straps, and grab bars.
The most significant difficulty reported by almost all paddlers is getting in and out of their vessels. Upon entry, kayaks and canoes can tip, shift, or roll over. Adaptive features can ensure safe access in and out of the water. It’s encouraging to see leaders and planners striving to create a more inclusive society. They understand the importance of inclusive outdoor recreation. As recreation stakeholders, we all share responsibility for shaping the future of our country’s outdoor spaces and inclusive lifestyle and improving the quality of life for all. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) fact sheet on Disability, an estimated 1.3 billion people experience significant disabilities. This represents 16% of the world’s population or 1 in 6 people.
According to the CDC Disability Impacts All of Us Infographic, 11.1 percent of U.S. adults have a mobility disability with serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
The value of an accessible and adaptive kayak launch
An accessible kayak launch with adaptive features can benefit everyone and offer accessibility to all, including older adults, people with mobility impairments, and people with temporary injuries or permanent conditions.
Ask any adaptive kayaker about their enjoyment, liberation, and empowerment after completing a paddle. Many will tell you they cannot wait to return to the water!
There are many ways to support the Legacy Parks Foundation through the Head of the Tennessee Initiative. Readers are encouraged to become a friend, learn more about their initiatives, or talk about planned giving by providing gifts of land or trail easements, or donations to support their cause. For more information, visit here: How to Help - Legacy Parks Foundation.
BoardSafe is a leading national manufacturer of high-quality aluminum-welded water access products: adaptive kayak launches, fishing piers, marinas, rowing centers, gangways, and pedestrian bridges. Whatever type of access your project needs, BoardSafe Docks will provide turn-key service, from product design and inception through delivery.
BoardSafe’s sales team is available for questions and consultation and will assist you with improving your water access site. You can learn more about BoardSafe Docks’ projects at our website, BoardSafeDocks.com, or by calling 610-899-0286.
BoardSafe Docks Assists Legacy Parks for Annual Luncheon for the Parks
Legacy Parks Foundation is making final preparations for its annual Luncheon for the Parks on September 29, 2023, from 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. at Seven Islands State Birding Park. The luncheon raises funds to conserve natural resources, create public places for recreation, and connect Tennessee communities. Through the generous support of donors, incredible open spaces are shaping into attractive recreational sites throughout the Knox County region. BoardSafe Docks provides water access products for Legacy Parks throughout East Tennessee by designing and manufacturing Adaptive Kayak Launches, Fishing Piers, Floating Docks, Gangways, and Pedestrian Bridges.
The guest speaker at this year’s sold-out luncheon is Chuck Leavell, who has been pleasing the ears of music fans for more than 40 years. His piano and keyboard skills have been part of The Allman Brothers Band, Eric Clapton, The Rolling Stones, The Black Crowes, Blues Traveler, Train, George Harrison, The Indigo Girls, Montgomery-Gentry, and many more. Watch his impressive documentary here: Chuck Leavell: The Tree Man (1080p) FULL MOVIE …
In addition to his brilliance in the music arena, Leavell is also a respected authority on conservation and forestry. He is a published author, co-founder of The Mother Nature Network, and host of the PBS series, “America's Forests.” In 2019, he and his wife, Rose Lane, were recognized as National Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year.
His mission shares an important message about caring for and saving our forests.
Head of the Tennessee Initiative creates accessibility for all
Starting at the Seven Islands State Birding Park location, Legacy Parks, in collaboration with Knox County, TVA, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Tennessee State Parks, UT Research Park, and BoardSafe Docks, is working to create inclusive access to East Tennessee’s waterways. Together, they share the vision to expand access points along the 25-mile water trail between Seven Islands State Park and UT Research Park, and create recreational sites that are accessible to all.
Features of the Tennessee Rivers
The French Broad and Holston Rivers confluence at Knoxville to form the beginning of the Tennessee River. They are tremendous natural assets with exceptional recreational potential for Knox County and surrounding communities.
The French Broad River
The French Broad River is believed to be one of the oldest rivers in the world based on the dating of rocks examined along its riverbanks. Locally, it offers a variety of recreation opportunities, including tubing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. Its tributaries are ideal habitats for several trout species, bass, bluegill, crappie, and the eastern spiny softshell turtle.
The Holston River
The picturesque Holston River begins in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and runs for 274 miles through Virginia into Tennessee. The part of the river below Cherokee Dam is possibly the most scenic water trail in the Tennessee Valley. Paddlers enjoy this panoramic paddle as it winds its way into the Tennessee River at Knoxville.
Between 1940 and 1950, the Tennessee Valley Authority built four dams on the Holston to provide electricity and control flooding. Today, the river is the most critical source of drinking water for communities south of the river and a place for fishing and recreation.
The Importance of paddle access for all
Paddling and exploring the water bring people and nature together for a blend of relaxation and good physical fun. They bring families and friends together, connect people with nature, and most importantly, promote exercise and wellness. There are so many reasons propelling around the water is attractive. When you step into a kayak, push off into a canal or river, and take those first few paddle strokes, nature surrounds you at every level. People are getting hooked on paddle sports. Paddling is an activity that almost everyone can participate in—young and old, novice and experienced, and people with mobility limitations.
Kayaking has become increasingly popular for paddlers with physical disabilities, amputees, and those with paralysis. It offers rehabilitation, exercise, and socialization. Most importantly, kayaking allows adaptive paddlers to be out on the water like everyone else. They describe the freedom of leaving their wheelchairs and transitioning into a kayak as “liberating.”
According to the Disability & Health U.S. State Profile Data from the CDC, 15% of adults in Tennessee experience a mobility disability. Nationally, one out of four people lives with a disability, limiting their options for recreation and play.
Ensuring that water access points are inclusive and accessible to all encourages more people to participate in outdoor activities on the water. Disability transcends all ages, political persuasions, races, incomes, titles, and degrees. It impacts everyone, and yet, there is still work to be done to ensure that everyone feels welcome and included. The Legacy Parks Foundation invites everyone to be part of the solution to change things that have kept people with disabilities and physical limitations from participating and enjoying the water. Our Work—Legacy Parks Foundation shows the results of and improvements from the combined efforts of many stakeholders, yet there is so much more they can accomplish.
Financial gifts play an important role in supporting programs that offer accessibility to all, improve parks, and allow people with disabilities and mobility limitations to be active in their communities and feel welcome to participate with families and friends.
There are many ways to support the Legacy Parks Foundation and the Head of the Tennessee Initiative. To become a friend, read more about their initiatives, or talk about planned giving or providing gifts of land or trail easements, head over to How to Help—Legacy Parks Foundation.
BoardSafe Docks is honored to partner with the Legacy Parks Foundation and be a Platinum Sponsor for their upcoming Luncheon for the Parks. BoardSafe’s Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch provides paddlers the ability to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle they’re looking for—safely, easily, and responsibly. They understand the value their accessibility products bring to communities and to the people using them. BoardSafe’s aluminum floating docks, fishing piers, and boat launches are easy to install and will look amazing for many years to come.
Contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 to learn more about the most durable and accessible aluminum floating launch options for any location. Our team will help you find the ideal solution to meet your water access needs.
BoardSafe Builds Connecting Pedestrian Bridge for Fleetwood Borough
Fleetwood Borough Park, located at 334 W. Main St., Fleetwood, PA, is the recipient of a recently installed BoardSafe pedestrian bridge. In 2020, the original bridge was swept away by a flooding storm that hit the area. The storm destroyed the park’s wooden pedestrian bridge, and flooding washed out the park. The park’s bandshell, already suffering from decay, was condemned when the creek caused additional damage from the storm.
“Borough Council was committed to replacing both the bridge and bandshell as they recognized how important these structures were to the Fleetwood residents and the activities that take place at the park,” said Borough Manager Chris Young. The old bridge provided walking access to the park from the residential neighborhood behind the park, and the new bridge restored the access that was lost.
Fleetwood Borough sought out and received generous grants from DCED (Department of Community and Economic Development) and DCNR (Department of Conservation and Natural Resources) to help fund the greatly needed project. Through the grant application process, they were able to receive $380,000 to subsidize the cost of the new bridge over the creek, repair the creek, address flood damage, and install a new bandshell.
Borough Council recognized how important these amenities are to its residents; therefore, they committed to repairing and maintaining the creek and the surrounding greenspace located in the heart and hub of their community. The park offers picnic facilities, a walking path with exercise stations, playground facilities, a bandshell, and a concession stand for concerts and other events. The pedestrian bridge was key to residents’ accessibility throughout the park and connects the park to the parking lot and nearby community.
An installation video of the long-awaited pedestrian bridge at Fleetwood Borough Park can be viewed here:
Fleetwood Park Pedestrian Bridge Installation
Watch a recent video of the completed installation here:
Completed Fleetwood Park Pedestrian Bridge
Ribbon-cutting ceremony recognized project contributors
A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Sunday, June 4, before Parks and Recreation's first Sunday night Concert in the Park.
Those in attendance included Judy Schwank, PA State Senator, other state officials, Fleetwood borough leaders, and representatives from contracting companies involved in the project. Those involved in the improvement project received recognition for their efforts at the well-attended ceremony.
“The public opinion regarding improvements at the park is positive, especially for the new bridge. The bandshell had a temporary tent for the last two years that allowed for concerts to continue, and the community was happy to see a permanent structure back in place. The new pedestrian bridge is ADA-compliant, offers wheelchair accessibility, and has solar lighting which the old bridge didn’t provide,” said Young.
Local contractors complete the work and offer community pride
The new pedestrian bridge, designed and manufactured by Board Safe Docks, also of Fleetwood, was purchased through Pennsylvania’s cooperative purchasing program called COSTARS (Cooperative Sourcing to Achieve Reductions in Spending.) The COSTARS program leverages buying power with competitively priced contracts and an effective procurement process.
The bridge preparation work, foundations, bandshell stage, and construction contract was awarded through a competitive bid process to DESCCO Design & Construction, Inc., of Fleetwood. Flyway Excavating of Mount Joy completed the site work on the creek.
“Working with BoardSafe on the design, manufacturing, and installation exceeded my expectations,” offered Chris Young, Fleetwood’s Borough Manager. Young complimented BoardSafe’s team for their excellent customer service, outstanding design, responsiveness to questions, and willingness to meet the borough’s needs every step of the way.
BoardSafe’s owner, Scott Tihansky, said, “We’re honored to improve accessibility for the borough where our manufacturing plant is located. Our dedicated team always receives compliments for their hard work and excellent customer service. A few members of our team grew up in the Topton-Fleetwood area, attended school or reside nearby, and feel honored to have their skills displayed at Fleetwood Park. Our team takes a lot of pride and ownership in creating a positive user experience.”
Fleetwood prepares for sesquicentennial: celebrating 150 years
The pedestrian bridge and park improvements were completed in time to celebrate the Borough of Fleetwood as it kicks off its 150th anniversary celebration. Numerous year-long celebratory events are planned to commemorate the borough. Fleetwood’s Council of Community Organizations (FCCO), a group composed of representatives from non-profit organizations, announced them here: 150th Anniversary – Borough of Fleetwood, PA. Events will include the Fleetwood Carnival, car shows, concerts and movies in the park, fireworks and parades, a time capsule presentation, and numerous holiday events.
Fleetwood’s history has deep roots
Fleetwood Historical Society goes a long way to preserve Fleetwood’s history. The society has a mission to “Preserve the Past for the Future.” The museum is a walk back in time to reminisce and a source to learn about historical contributions from the Fleetwood area. Fleetwood’s history is impressive and the artifacts are plentiful. Visitors may learn more about Fleetwood’s history at these informative sites: Fleetwood Timeline and About Fleetwood — Borough of Fleetwood, Pennsylvania. Or better yet, visit their museum at 110 W. Arch St.
BoardSafe’s pedestrian bridge project profile
The pedestrian bridge project consisted of a 35-ft long x 6.8-ft wide elevated aluminum pedestrian walkway, a 30-ft. gangway, and a 24-ft. gangway with a landing and stairs. The new ADA-compliant gangway provides opportunities for people in wheelchairs to attend park functions without struggling through the barriers that existed in the past. The pedestrian bridge will provide inclusive access to the park for many years to come.
Here are some installation pictures to understand the project's scope and complexity; offering elevation above the stream and ADA accessibility.
Click on the links below for additional information on BoardSafe’s pedestrian bridges:
Aluminum Pedestrian Bridges and Gangways
BoardSafe’s Pedestrian Bridges Build Connections
Inclusive parks demonstrate community
As parks, marinas, and outdoor facilities look to improve accessibility for disabled community members, BoardSafe Docks has become nationally recognized for offering accessible solutions and adaptive features for all people looking to enjoy activities in parks and on the water. BoardSafe is the industry leader for commercial and municipal waterfront products. We specialize in design, engineering, and manufacturing of aluminum-welded docks, marinas, rowing centers, adaptive kayak launches, gangways, stationary and floating fishing piers, pedestrian bridges, and other accessible products throughout the USA.
BoardSafe’s marine-grade aluminum pedestrian bridge, like the one built for the Borough of Fleetwood, can be manufactured to custom specifications in length, width, and design. BoardSafe’s experienced team can solve customer challenges quickly and cost-effectively.
Contact BoardSafe Docks today at 610-899-0286 to learn more about the most durable and accessible aluminum-welded options for your location. The team will help you find an ideal solution around your waterfront.
10 Considerations When Choosing a Floating Dock Builder
We have listed 10 considerations for prospective buyers to be aware of during the design, engineering, and manufacturing phase of their projects.
If you’ve decided to work with BoardSafe Docks for our industry expertise, you’ve made the right choice. Working with a dock builder you trust will strengthen your professional relationship and translate into a more pleasant building experience.
Following are some key points to learn and understand about the design, engineering, and manufacturing process.
Choose an experienced floating dock builder.
Customers prefer to select a dock builder with prior dock-building experience. Ask how long the dock builder has been doing this type of work. Visit completed dock projects to see what they look like after the installation, as well as jobs they completed five years earlier so you have an idea of their strength, durability, and performance over time. Speak with and review references from prior customers. Since no two waterfronts are ever the same, neither will be floating dock projects. Projects will always vary; therefore, successful prior experience will ensure you’re getting a quality product that lasts. Take the time to research completed projects and reviews before you hire your contractor. Your dock is more than a regular construction project, so don’t waste time with inexperienced or novice builders.
Communicate with your designer-dock builder.
A trusted dock designer will be one you can easily contact and communicate with. Do they respond to your phone calls and emails in a timely manner? Establish in advance your preferred method of communication and the frequency of communication and how payments will be made. Map out a schedule for updates regarding the progress of your project. Dock projects can take time to complete—from designing, engineering, and ordering materials, through fabrication.
Structural integrity of the dock design and materials
You can’t have a quality dock without quality materials! That means asking your floating dock designer about the best type of dock for your environment, its features, and their recommended materials. The kind of dock, its location, and the materials used, will tell you a lot about the quality of their product. If the designer tends to use a certain product or material, you can look up information about the company and decide if you think it’s a good fit. Purchasing a floating dock is a big investment that you want to last for many years to come.
The durability of an aluminum floating dock
Be sure to ask how your dock will stand up against various weather elements. Understand what type of maintenance will be required during the winter months, during changes in tidal conditions, and when there’s flooding or drought. This will reveal the considerations your designer needs to make for your dock regarding the local weather and demands of the waterway. Customers who experience any type of extreme weather, traffic, or tidal conditions, should ensure their designer prepares for it.
Project timeline for the floating dock
When it’s time to really get serious about your project, one of the critical questions you must ask is about your designer’s timeline. Try to zero in on a specific schedule and have some aspect of timeline expectations in your contract.
Site preparation prior to installation
Well before construction even begins, make sure your designer has the plan to protect and prepare your property for the dock’s installation. If trucks and other equipment must be driven through your yard, make sure you know how you want your dock builder to access your property from both land and water. Understand what site work may need to be completed prior to the installation of your floating dock system and who is responsible for that site work. Make sure it is completed prior to the arrival of your dock.
Permits for your water access project
Find out what regulations govern your property prior to starting any waterfront access project. Start with your town building code department and work your way up. Also check for the county, state, and federal regulations that might affect your property. Know who is responsible for obtaining your permits—your landscape architect, the engineer, the dock builder, or the property owner.
Unexpected change orders
There are always unintended changes that may arise during the construction of your project. Ask your designer what the process will be if changes to the design are necessary—especially if they will result in changes in cost. Make it clear that you want to know about changes and any additional costs in advance if necessary.
Consider the end goal early in your floating dock project.
It’s important to consider the entirety of your floating dock project at the start of your project. If you have questions, ask them. If you have your eye set on additional dock accessories, communicate that in advance. Customers who change their design ideas in the middle of the project need to expect additional costs and additional time for completion. These little steps can make a big impact on the timing of construction and your overall satisfaction with your completed boat dock.
Understand the warranty of your floating dock system.
Asking these questions will set you up for an extremely successful relationship with your dock designer. You’re much less likely to face setbacks and disappointments if you set up a good foundation of understanding from the beginning.
When you find a professional dock builder, ask if they provide annual maintenance packages for your floating dock system, especially if you live in an area where docks need to be removed for the winter months. If they do, it’s a good idea to establish a recurring maintenance schedule.
BoardSafe Docks understands the benefits and impact their floating dock systems offer to communities and park systems. Their inclusive launch is fitted for kayaks, canoes, and SUPS, and gets everyone in the water safely and easily. We know 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. BoardSafe’s fishing piers allow their users to enjoy the outdoors safely away from active boat launches and access points. Our floating dock systems for marinas enhance the ability to safely secure vessels in the water, allowing boaters to come onto land for dining and other recreational activities.
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.
BoardSafe’s Aluminum Gangways Offer Accessibility to All
Gangways are raised walkways or connected platforms that allow pedestrians to walk safely from one point to another. Gangways help pedestrians walk from land to water, function as a bridge between sites, provide a stable walkway for pedestrians when boarding and disembarking boats, and connect to floating docks and marinas to create passageways from land to a structure in the water.
Gangways are necessary around high pedestrian-traffic areas around waterfronts, rowing centers, parks, lakes, marinas, rails to trails, and access points, allowing safe entry to waterfronts. BoardSafe Docks offers multiple solutions to their customers with their accessible aluminum-welded gangways, ramps, fixed piers, and pedestrian bridges.
Allentown Waterfront, Allentown, PA Boston Garden, Boston Harbor, MA
BoardSafe aluminum gangways are manufactured to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards by including a ramp with a 1/12 pitch or less, two full-length handrails, aluminum toe-kick plates preventing sliding off the edge, and special accessibility grab-bars for wheelchair users. BoardSafe’s products are constructed for strength, durability, safety, and accessibility with additional adaptive features.
Although standard-size gangways are stocked for immediate delivery and available for convenience, BoardSafe designs and manufactures gangways to meet custom specifications in sizes from 8′ to 100′ in length. Width varies depending on the project's needs and applications.
Based on architectural and engineering specifications, gangways can be fixed or floating piers that offer seamless transitions to land that ensure full accessibility. ADA-designed gangways increase accessibility for anyone who is disabled, and will allow people using wheelchairs to access locations safely and easily. BoardSafe is a recognized expert and specializes in ADA-compliant designs, as seen in product pictures and videos available at BoardSafeDocks.com.
Tall Ship Gangway, Boston, MA
Benefits of a BoardSafe aluminum gangway or fixed pier
Aluminum gangways are much lighter than steel and other materials, making them easier to handle and install.
Aluminum is durable, rust-resistant, and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making aluminum a long-lasting option. It is virtually maintenance-free. Unlike other materials, aluminum requires no painting or other forms of maintenance, saving time and money. Aluminum is corrosion-resistant, making it ideal for use in marine environments, and is recyclable—therefore, an environmentally-friendly option.
Aluminum is a cost-effective option being less expensive than other materials; therefore it’s financially desirable to customers.
Click here to view a video of an 80’ gangway project along the Allentown Waterfront: Allentown Waterfront Floating Dock and Kayak Boat Launch on the Lehigh River
The Allentown Waterfront redevelopment project is an effort to revitalize an undeveloped area along the Lehigh River. Water access along the river is a key feature and will support the success of the mix of retail, commercial, and residential development planned for the location. A custom landing and hub for the top of the gangway was built into the bank with two large support arms providing additional structural integrity to the gangway’s and dock’s connection to the riverbank. The custom floating dock was designed in four sections that allow for movement as the river’s elevation changes throughout the seasons or die to river flooding.
BoardSafe gangways are fabricated with their own proprietary extruded components. Boardsafe’s custom commercial gangways reduce the number of mechanical joins, making the frame components stronger and less likely to loosen over time. All of BoardSafe’s gangways, including the handrails, are manufactured using an aluminum welded design.
Conshohocken Rowing Center Gangway
Many competitors use bolt-together assemblies that reduce structural integrity and durability. BoardSafe’s railings are constructed with a free-span truss design, with exposed surfaces and welded joints that are smooth and free of sharp or jagged edges. BoardSafe gangways use stainless steel hardware to ensure long-lasting performance. The gangways stay cool to the touch and are built for harsh and high-use environments. Aluminum welds are able to withstand high winds and environmental flooding. The decking materials we offer are slip-resistant, using self-mating extruded aluminum or composite. These choices have proven the optimal choice for year-round access to frequently flooded areas and seasonal streams.
A video example of a 54’ custom gangway can be viewed here: Aluminum Floating Docks and Gangway at Riverside Dock
BoardSafe Docks was contracted to come up with a design for a new floating dock system on the Schuylkill River, across from Pottstown, PA, in North Coventry Township. The site included an existing boat ramp with signs of a previous dock system that had washed away in a flood years ago. The customer asked if BoardSafe could design a new dock system that would stand up to flood conditions. It also had to be ADA-compliant and not project too far out into the river.
BoardSafe’s solution was to evaluate the site conditions and design and manufacture and install a foundation that included a cantilevered deck that projected out over the river. A concrete foundation supports the cantilevered aluminum deck bolted into the foundation. The gangway is connected to the side of the deck and runs parallel to the river bank. Supplemental flotation was placed at the bottom of the gangway to provide adequate buoyancy for its weight and to maintain a freeboard of 16 inches, the same as the floating dock. The gangway is connected to the floating dock via a piano hinge. The hinge allows the dock system to move up and down as the water level fluctuates. The floating dock was made up of two 8’ x 20’ dock sections connected together with a piano hinge. Rubber dock bumpers and adjustable cleats were installed into the dock's custom aluminum extrusions. The components of the dock system include:
- 8’ x 10’ x 4’ concrete foundation supported by a rebar cage and driven steel pilings
- 8’ x 20’ cantilevered deck with aluminum frame and galvanized steel structural support members, composite deck boards
- 5’ x 54’ gangway with an expanded section at the top with non-skid aluminum decking
- 8’ x 40’ floating dock with 16-inch freeboard, manufactured in two sections
North Coventry Township, PA
Gangway design considerations
Understanding the type of gangway needed for a location can help determine the length and width of the gangway. Design concerns to keep in mind are the environmental conditions of the location and the durability and design life of the project. There is an inherent correlation between cost and the lifespan of an aluminum welded gangway. A gangway constructed of wood may be the least expensive option; however, it may only last a few years due to UV, water, and bug damage.
The following video is a site visit of a BSD aluminum gangway and adaptive kayak launch in Cleveland, OH, approximately one year after its installation. BoardSafe Docks engineered, built, and installed the unique ADA-inspired gangway and accessible launch system to make the waterfront accessible to adaptive paddlers.
East 55th Street Adaptive and Accessible ADA Kayak Launch by BoardSafe Docks
Why docks should be designed for accessibility
Designing docks for accessibility is important for several reasons.
Inclusion Making docks accessible allows individuals with disabilities to participate in water-based activities and access the recreational opportunities the water provides.
Safety An accessible dock is designed to provide a safe and stable environment for people with disabilities to board and disembark from boats. This can include features such as ramps, handrails, and non-slip surfaces.
Minsi Lake, Mt. Bethel, PA Pickwick Lake, TN
Compliance with laws In the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires new construction and alterations of public accommodations, commercial facilities, and state and local government facilities, to be accessible to people with disabilities.
Cost-effective An accessible dock can be designed to be cost-effective. It can include features that are relatively easy and inexpensive to install, such as a ramp or handrails, and can be incorporated into the design of the dock.
Community benefit An accessible dock can benefit the entire community. It not only improves the recreational opportunities for people with disabilities, it also promotes a more inclusive community and encourages people of all abilities to enjoy the water.
Increase in visitors Making a dock accessible can increase the number of visitors to the area, because people with disabilities and their families and friends may be more likely to visit if the dock is accessible.
Voice of America Metroparks, OH North Coventry Twp, PA
Statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), reveal that about 15% of the world's population, or more than 1 billion people, live with some form of disability. Of those, approximately 2–4% have a mobility impairment, which could make it difficult for them to access traditional trails, kayak launches, and other water access points.
Accessible designs benefit a significant portion of the population, including people with mobility impairments, and physical disabilities, older adults, and people with temporary injuries or similar conditions.
Gangways are important access areas for waterfront design and construction because they comply with ADA laws, allow people with disabilities to participate in water-based activities, promote a more inclusive community, increase the number of visitors to the area, offer safe access, and provide cost-effective options for community benefit.
The University of PA Rowing Center The University of PA Rowing Center
BoardSafe Docks is also the expert for many Division I rowing centers and boathouses where specialty gangways are used to get racing sculls into the water safely and efficiently.
What length gangway do I need?
To help determine the gangway needed for your project, here are two articles that will guide you in determining the length of your gangway.
https://boardsafedocks.com/adaptive-launch/what-length-gangway-provides-handicap-access/
https://boardsafedocks.com/adaptive-launch/how-to-calculate-ada-gangway-length/
When your project requires structural integrity, non-polluting materials, corrosion resistance, strength, and safety, a BoardSafe gangway will meet your standards.
Explore your options with a BoardSafe aluminum-welded gangway, ramp, floating dock, kayak launch, fishing pier, or other water access products.
Conshohocken, PA, Rowing Center
BoardSafe Docks is a leading national manufacturer of high-quality aluminum-welded floating docks, gangways, fishing piers, kayak launches, rowing centers, pedestrian bridges, and other accessible water access products. Whatever type of access your project may need, BoardSafe Docks provides a turn-key service, from product design and inception through delivery.
BoardSafe’s sales team is available for questions and consultation and will assist you with finding your optimal waterfront solution. You may learn more about BoardSafe Dock’s projects through their website at BoardSafeDocks.com or by calling 610-899-0286.
BoardSafe’s Pedestrian Bridges Build Connections
Rails to trails is a growing concept spreading across the country. Pedestrian bridges add value to trails by connecting people to nature and the beautiful outdoors, and by connecting neighboring communities and rail systems to each other.
Footbridges have become integral to our country's trail systems. Whether crossing over rivers and streams, railways or roadways, footbridges provide connections between neighboring trail segments. Bridges can be a challenging element to trail design, but at the same time, they offer some of the most striking features to these systems, especially when they offer impressive views or provide an architectural or aesthetic interest to the trail.
BoardSafe Docks designs, engineers, and manufactures marine-grade aluminum pedestrian bridges built to custom specifications in length, width, and design.
Benefits of using marine-grade aluminum in pedestrian bridges
The corrosive nature of water and saltwater dictates the use of special materials for structures near, over, or in the water. Constant exposure to water and moisture warrants a marine-grade application making aluminum-welded pedestrian bridges one of the best options available.
Aluminum develops a higher level of corrosion resistance and strength when alloyed with other metals to qualify it as marine-grade. This type of commercial aluminum can tolerate constant contact with water and will not corrode in saltwater.
Wood rots and steel will rust, making marine-grade aluminum one of the best choices for use near high-moisture environments. Marine-grade aluminum offers high strength-to-weight ratios, superior corrosion resistance, and good formability and weldability. Aluminum footbridges will remain rust-free whether they are unpainted or powder coated. These bridges are a strong, durable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective choice, allowing trail links to offer their users healthy outdoor recreation, a safe place for fun, and connections to neighboring communities for many years to come.
BoardSafe is the trusted industry leader and educational advocate for accessible marine products. BoardSafe manufactures commercial aluminum pedestrian bridges using the highest-quality materials, including marine-grade 6160 aluminum and a heavy-duty proprietary extruded aluminum frame.
For decking, clients may choose non-skid aluminum deck boards, fiberglass grating, or composite deck boards connected with hidden TimberStrong fasteners. BoardSafe’s pedestrian bridges and walkways are designed for trail systems, lakes, marshlands, parks, and rivers, and offer expert solutions for accessibility along or near any waterway.
Click on the links below for content, pictures, and videos of additional pedestrian bridge projects designed, engineered, and manufactured by BoardSafe Docks.
- 68-Foot Aluminum Pedestrian Bridge Installed in Haines Mill Park, Allentown, PA
- Commercial Aluminum Piers
- Leaser Lake, PA, Bridge Completes Walking Path Around Lake
- D&L Pedestrian Bridge Completed in Catasauqua, PA
Bridges offer unique design elements
Typically, we think of pedestrian bridges as a means of crossing over or accessing a previously inaccessible location. Pedestrian bridges provide physical access and have the potential to enhance the immediate community, bring communities together, offer an attractive outdoor element, and encourage the exploration of nature.
Footbridges, trail bridges, parks & recreation bridges, and landscape bridges, are typically designed for short bridge spans used for pedestrian foot traffic only. They serve remote and hard-to-reach places and are the preferred and safer option for walkers, bicyclists, and hikers. Pedestrian bridges can add design elements to enhance the outdoor scenery and will add value to any greenway project. Their design is often aesthetically pleasing and their views encourage connections to nature and the outdoors.
The importance of increased accessibility
Pedestrian bridges offer a great way to access places that were not previously accessible by foot, car, or bicycle. They provide access to, a way around, or connection to nature and something worth seeing. The differences a footbridge can make are
- increasing the connections to and enlarging the trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and kayaking.
- ensuring people with disabilities have access to these locations.
- adding convenience and accessibility to parks, playgrounds, picnic areas, golf courses, and other outdoor recreation attractions.
Why aluminum?
BoardSafe’s commercial, marine-grade pedestrian bridges and piers can be built to any design specification. Aluminum is at least half as strong as steel and only 1/3 the weight, yet aluminum bridges handle heavy loads exceptionally well. BoardSafe’s pedestrian bridges, fixed piers, gangways, and other aluminum access products, are structurally sound, non-polluting, virtually maintenance-free, and infinitely recyclable, making aluminum an environmentally-friendly choice.
BoardSafe’s fully welded, marine-grade aluminum fixed piers, pedestrian bridges, and walkways, feature non-skid aluminum decking, flow-through fiberglass grating, and environmentally-friendly composite decking. Naturally lightweight and long-lasting aluminum is the ideal structural material for any pedestrian bridge.
When your pedestrian bridge project requires structural integrity, non-polluting materials, corrosion resistance, strength, and safety, explore your options with BoardSafe’s aluminum-welded pedestrian bridges, gangways, ramps, raised walkways, and other aluminum access products.
BoardSafe Docks is a leading national manufacturer of high-quality aluminum-welded accessible products. Whatever type of access your project may need, BoardSafe Docks provides turn-key service, from product design and inception through delivery.
BoardSafe’s sales team is available for questions and consultation and will assist you with finding your optimal waterfront solution. You can learn more about BoardSafe Dock’s projects through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com or by calling 610-899-0286.
BoardSafe Manufactures Marinas, Rowing Centers, Adaptive Launches, Gangways and Bridges
Since 2009, BoardSafe Docks has designed, manufactured, and installed high-quality floating docks, aluminum gangways, pedestrian bridges, adaptive kayak launches, and other marine access products.
Their projects cover a variety of locations including urban projects found in Austin, Dallas, Houston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Jacksonville, Chicago, Manhattan, and Boston Harbor. They have also undertaken numerous rural projects on lakes, rivers, streams, and coastal environments. Regardless of the setting, BoardSafe’s innovative process to understand clients’ needs and configure their standardized products into a custom solution for each client is a winning formula.
Please watch the following video that highlights how BoardSafe Docks exceeds the expectations of its diverse clientele:
BoardSafe’s experience in construction and manufacturing gives them unparalleled expertise and innovative solutions to address the dynamic conditions of tides, currents, and other water fluctuations ranging from severe flooding to drought conditions. This has made BoardSafe the trusted expert for park directors, civil engineers, landscape architects, and other professionals who desire only the best-engineered and highest-quality aluminum floating docks and launch systems for their rowing centers, marinas, and water access points.
BoardSafe is the trusted expert for Division I rowing programs, regatta centers, and iconic clubs like those along Boathouse Row in Philadelphia.
In fact, BoardSafe’s desire to maximize each user’s ability led to the creation of their adaptive kayak launch products and accessories. They also work with state and local park systems, municipalities, and community groups interested in universal access to their waterfront. BoardSafe also works for numerous smaller venues and community groups.
In 2012, a group of adaptive paddlers partnered with BoardSafe to make a lake accessible for adaptive paddlers. From this collaboration, BoardSafe created numerous adaptive product innovations to empower paddlers to transition safely and easily in and out of their vessels.
Since then, BoardSafe continues to champion adaptive accessibility for waterfronts across the USA. This commitment to education and advocacy has made BoardSafe a leading voice in aquatic recreation accessibility, as well as the manufacturing source for the best-performing and highest-quality launch systems available. With BoardSafe’s expertise in engineering and manufacturing, they were able to expand into aluminum pedestrian bridges to meet growing customer demand.
BoardSafe’s recipe for success is simple—it is all about their process. First, they assess their clients’ individual objectives and evaluate the site conditions for the desired use. This is where BoardSafe Docks’ experience plays a vital role in evaluating the unique physical conditions located at each site. Second, BoardSafe proposes design and engineering solutions to address the requirements of each site and ultimately achieve each client’s project goals. And finally, systematic processes during product manufacturing ensure quality, long-term durability, and performance. BoardSafe’s standardized products are customized into unique configurations to meet and exceed performance expectations.
Simply put, BoardSafe products are designed to meet the requirements of civil engineers, structural engineers, architects, and landscape architects, as well as the wishes of competitive rowers and adaptive paddlers.
BSD understands what investing in this type of recreation means for communities and how they can empower individuals. If you share this vision, call us to discuss your project.