BoardSafe Expands to Support Demand for Accessible Infrastructure
BoardSafeDocks of Fleetwood, PA, a leading designer and manufacturer of aluminum floating dock systems and accessible waterfront infrastructure, has completed a significant expansion of its manufacturing operations to support continued growth and increasing nationwide demand.
The expansion adds new production space and long-term infrastructure improvements that will allow BoardSafe to increase production, improve workflow efficiency, and continue delivering high-quality, custom-engineered dock systems for public agencies, municipalities, and private clients across the U.S.
“This investment reflects the sustained demand we’re seeing for durable, accessible, and thoughtfully engineered waterfront solutions,” said Tom Warchol, co-owner, BoardSafe. “By expanding our manufacturing footprint, we’re positioning the company to support our partners better, shorten lead times, and maintain the level of quality and service our customers expect.”
Working with Seedcopa to finance the purchase of additional manufacturing space has enabled us to grow and expand our manufacturing capabilities and meet customers’ growing needs. Seedcopa’s long-term, fixed-rate financing supports BoardSafe’s responsible growth and preserves operational flexibility and working capital. This expansion reinforces our commitment to long-term manufacturing investment, skilled labor, and domestic production.
BoardSafe’s dock systems are used nationwide in parks, marinas, riverfronts, and public access sites, with a strong focus on ADA-compliant design, resilience, and low lifecycle maintenance. The expanded facility will support both current product lines and future innovation as the company continues to grow.
For more information about BoardSafe, our products, or joining our innovative team, visit www.boardsafedocks.com.
Syracuse Inner Harbor Welcomes BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch
Syracuse Inner Harbor is the recipient of a newly-installed BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, bringing accessible and adaptive kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding to the residents and visitors of Syracuse, NY.
The BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch is located at the south end of Onondaga Lake. Syracuse’s Inner Harbor is an up-and-coming urban neighborhood with unique waterfront access. Paddling, biking, and hiking are just some of the draws to the water where residents and visitors can now dine, visit, stay, and play around Syracuse’s growing Inner Harbor.
The adaptive kayak launch was installed on the creek between Syracuse Inner Harbor and Onondaga Lake. The launch is served by an 8-space accessible parking area connected via a paved walking path. The launch is directly tied to the Empire State Trail, a 750-mile-long trail that connects Buffalo to Albany and NYC to the Canadian border.
The fully-accessible floating dock project includes a 16-ft. long gangway and kayak chute connected to an 8-ft. x 16-ft. floating dock and kayak launch that provides specialized adaptive features.
Benefits of a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch
The launch boasts a strong and durable aluminum-welded frame. Aluminum is a sustainable material that can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy use.
Aluminum is a low-maintenance product. It’s non-polluting and resistant to rust and corrosion; therefore, less maintenance is required over time.
An aluminum floating dock system is relatively lightweight, making it easy to install and move if necessary.
BoardSafe kayak launches are easily customizable. Since no two waterfront projects are exactly alike, BoardSafe offers over 20 different configurations to meet the specific needs and design preferences of our customers.
The full waterfront project was contracted by Ballard Sports out of Syracuse, NY. BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA, designed and manufactured the adaptive launch system and Tom Warchol of BoardSafe provided on-site supervision to guide the installation of the launch. Russell Houck, Facilities Engineer for the City of Syracuse, was the project manager. BoardSafe also collaborated with the Syracuse Parks & Rec to bring this accessible and inclusive water experience to the community. Through everyone’s combined efforts, the city is excited to welcome both seasoned and novice paddlers to explore the beauty of the harbor. The new inclusive launch offers safe and easy access to paddle and explore the creek.
The vision for the Inner Harbor is to continue to expand the pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use community that focuses on public access to the water. The city plans to continue to expand its growth so residents and visitors can shop, dine, and recreate.
Visitors describe Syracuse’s waterfront as a “great place to watch the sunset in the city or go for a run on the trail or kayak.” Everyone loves the peacefulness and serenity of being by the water.
Accolades about the new BoardSafe ADA Kayak Launch
Inner Harbor’s Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/syrinnerharbor, has already received numerous accolades for the inclusive kayak launch. The adaptive features make entry into the water easier for everyone; however, the launch features are built specifically with adaptive paddlers in mind and a focus on inclusive recreation.
The additional adaptive features found only in a BoardSafe Kayak Launch are what sets our launch apart from other accessible launches. While other launches may offer some features, many of them lack adaptive features, or the features offered have not been developed to the extent necessary to work for adaptive paddlers.
In 2015, BoardSafe’s team was approached by an adaptive paddling group and asked to design and manufacture a launch that would work to meet the varied needs of the disabled paddlers in their group. Together, they identified what features work and are necessary to ensure the launch works for those who need it the most. The end result is our feature-rich and inclusive BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch.
Fun facts about Syracuse
Burnet Park in the City of Syracuse is home to the first public golf course in the USA.
The 24-second shot clock used in the NBA was invented in Syracuse by the owner of the Syracuse Nationals Basketball Team.
The New York State Fair is held annually in Syracuse and is the longest-running state fair in the USA.
Syracuse Inner Harbor is the first in its city to offer a truly accessible kayak launch with adaptive features that offer safe and easy access for all paddlers looking to enjoy a day on the water. Syracuse is making inclusion happen!
Interested in learning more about paddling in Syracuse?
The Syracuse Inner Harbor Fest is scheduled for 9/20/23–10/1/23. This year's festival will include paddle races for community members, sports, and youth teams, as well as military teams. Participants can learn how to paddle a dragon boat and form a team. In addition to the races, there will be music, awards, food and drink vendors, entertainment, and a family fun zone with carnival rides. More information is available at this link: syracuseinnerharbor.ticketsauce.com.
BoardSafe Docks is the trusted designer, engineer, and manufacturer of aluminum floating docks, gangways, kayak launches, pedestrian bridges, and rowing centers for nationally-ranked rowing teams. Our sales team is available to answer any questions you may have and to assist you with finding your optimal waterfront solution. Our launches can go anywhere your heart takes you paddling! To learn more about BoardSafe Docks, check out our website and contact us through BoardSafeDocks.com or by calling 610-899-0286.
ADA-Accessible Kayak Launch Offers Weeks Bay Adaptive Features
The Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Fairhope, Alabama, recently introduced its inclusive, ADA-compliant kayak launch to its kayakers and canoers so they can enjoy paddling Weeks Bay. What’s most important about the new kayak launch is its unique features that offer inclusivity and the ability for adaptive paddlers and paddlers with disabilities and mobility limitations to enter and exit their vessel safely, and to participate in paddling activities with their non-disabled family and friends.
The Reserve is thankful to multiple organizations and community partners who collaborated, raised funds, and contributed to the new adaptive launch system. The adaptive kayak launch is accessible to all and was designed and manufactured by BoardSafe Docks. To help fund the launch, the Alabama Coastal Area Management Program (ACAMP) used 306a funds designated for low-cost public access improvement projects. Those funds were matched by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR). South Alabama Land Trust (SALT), a passionate and community-focused group, also raised funds and donated toward the accessible launch system. Recognition is deserved for all the stakeholders who were involved in this inclusive project which opens up paddling and welcomes everyone to Weeks Bay!
Until recently, Weeks Bay did not have a kayak or canoe launch. Paddlers had to compete with much larger vessels to launch their boats. Their only option was to launch from the motorboat ramp or walk them into the water across jagged rocks and riprap.
The new kayak and canoe launch provides accessibility to non-motorized vessels, and the specialized launch offers adaptive features to include paddlers with disabilities or mobility limitations, making it safe and easy for paddlers of all abilities to paddle on Weeks Bay. It’s a happy day on the bay!
The Weeks Bay Foundation is pleased to share its accessibility for all.
Prior to the installation of the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, the bay lacked accessibility for its paddlers. Weeks Bay Reserve takes students and teachers paddling during educational field trips as well as hosts events that attract paddlers to the water. These events allow visitors to connect with nature and socialize with family and friends. The Reserve is happy that these events are now inclusive and accessible for all. One event is a kayak and canoe-based cleanup to remove trash along the Weeks Bay and Fish River shorelines; the shorelines are not accessible by land and must be reached by kayaks, canoes, and other watercraft. The second event occurs during National Estuaries Week when the Reserve hosts multiple paddle eco-tours around the bay. The Reserve is hoping the new launch will attract new paddlers looking to try out the accessible launch.
Weeks Bay is well-known for its protected coastline and calm waters. The bay draws thousands of people who enjoy exploring the water by powerboat, sailboat, and paddleboat. Paddling on the bay is a calm, quiet experience that often includes seeing amazing wildlife like manatees and bald eagles. Whether paddling in a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard, seeing the rare and endangered species adds to the attraction of paddling the bay. The Reserve is proud of its new launch and happy to welcome all interested paddlers to enjoy the beauty of Weeks Bay.
The launch’s unique features are a draw for the adaptive paddling community.
The new ADA adaptive kayak launch allows local paddling groups like Team River Runner, a disabled-veteran and adaptive-paddling group, the inclusive opportunity to get out on the waterway. The Team River Runner group provides paddlers in need of physical exercise the opportunity to get out on the waterway for therapeutic paddling sessions. Team River Runner plans and hosts a number of recreational opportunities for disabled paddlers that improve their quality of life by offering therapeutic, social, inclusive, and community connections to its users. The Reserve is sure the new launch and its features will assist the adaptive paddlers and add to their enjoyment when paddling the bay.
The Reserve is glad to support its community’s equity plan and offer greater opportunities and improved paddling experiences to its disabled veteran community. Paddlers seen using the launch are enjoying the freedom of being on the water. Without safe entry and exit points for people with disabilities and physical limitations, opportunities to experience the beauty of kayaking Weeks Bay would have remained limited.
Where to find the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch site at Weeks Bay
Paddlers are able to launch their vessels at The Weeks Bay Reserve (just west of the US 98 bridge) that hugs the shoreline going north and south. One may paddle north on Fish River, under the US 98 bridge, and turn left into a little inlet that loops through the back of the Weeks Bay Reserve property and back out to the river a couple of hundred yards above the kayak launch.
Kayaking and paddle sports' popularity continues to grow.
The latest data from the Research News - Outdoor Industry Association, specific to kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding, found a record number of 37.9 million Americans engaged in paddlesports during 2020, adding 2.5 million new paddlers to America’s waterways. COVID may have contributed to the increase, but a few years later, it appears these numbers are here to stay and continue to grow. The growth in kayaking, kayak fishing, and other paddlesports, has increased the number of paddlers seeking launch sites to access the water. Unfortunately, many access points exclude paddlers with disabilities and those with limited mobility because the infrastructure is outdated or the sites lack the necessary adaptive features to make them truly inclusive launch sites.
BoardSafe Docks is a nationally recognized manufacturer of floating dock systems and a trusted expert who provides education and guidance when planning and designing inclusive water access products, specifically their highly-requested adaptive kayak launch and adaptive fishing pier.
To discuss your inclusive project, or for help designing your non-motorized water access site, contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 or through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
Richmond Kentucky Unveils Accessible Kayak Launch at Lake Reba
Nature lovers have a multitude of fun venues for various activities for all ages. The BoardSafe adaptive, accessible kayak launch opens up the joys of kayaking on Lake Reba to a new level of participation for the mobility-challenged population.
You can find more details about this project in this article in the Richmond Register:
Richmond unveils kayak launch at Lake Reba
U Penn Rowing Center Renovates, Reopens as Burk-Bergman Boathouse
The University of Pennsylvania's Rowing Center on the Schuylkill River recently completed a $13.5 million renovation to its historical boathouse, rowing docks, and gangway.
The original Maderia Shell House constructed in 1874 and located on Philadelphia’s prestigious Boathouse Row recently reopened as the Burk-Bergman Boathouse, honoring two former legendary Penn rowing coaches. The redesigned boathouse along the scenic stretch of boathouses along the Schuykill River is one of Philadelphia’s most historical and iconic landmarks. Penn’s boathouse is one of the oldest in the country and home to three of Penn’s varsity intercollegiate rowing programs; the men's heavyweight, men's lightweight, and women’s rowing teams.
The dated facility was in disrepair and unable to serve the anticipated growth and interest in Penn’s rowing programs. The boathouse required a complete renovation and its supporters envisioned the new facility as a top-notch training center that would help Penn recruit higher caliber student-athletes and allow for better use of the nearly 150-year-old building.
https://youtu.be/kz8zrpSVaCM
The improvements will move Penn to the top of Division I rowing programs in terms of facilities, boathouse amenities, rowing docks and gangways, indoor training equipment, boat storage, and equitable locker rooms for men and women. Coaches and teammates are hoping their upgrades will help them become nationally recognized and more competitive among the Division I rowing community.
Ewing Cole was the design firm that led the project for the renovation of the boathouse while BoardSafe Docks provided the design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation of the new rowing docks and gangway.
The project restored the original stone structure and maintained the original chttps://boardsafedocks.com/haracter of the historical venue along Boathouse Row. The design completely renovated and modernized its interior. The updates included improvements to their meeting and locker rooms and greatly improved its training facilities for their rowers. Aesthetically, it boasts a soaring main entrance, an open lobby to display trophies and memorabilia, a contemporary lounge and meeting area, and a balcony that overlooks the river. The iconic structure maintains the original historical elements of the 1874 boathouse while offering modern design and conveniences that will wow their rowers and guests. The improved training facilities and workout areas now provide equal space for men and women athletes and an elevator that provides adaptive rowers and guests access to the second floor. The renovation project supported Penn's mission, vision, and values for inclusive design and showcases the historical and grand structure.
Over 200 alumni and former rowers donated to the campaign demonstrating their support for the project and the sport of rowing, Penn’s teams, and the University. The Burk-Bergman facility and its amenities have become the envy of other rowing clubs and are expected to attract top-performing recruits.
BoardSafe’s solution for water access and updates to Penn’s rowing docks and gangway included disposal of the existing wooden gangway and aging floating dock system. A new aluminum gangway and aluminum-welded floating dock were designed to fit the previous layout and setbacks. The aluminum products now showcased at the facility offer increased structural integrity and durability for their location on the river.
The new gangway measures 20 feet by 84 feet and is attached to the concrete bulkhead using the proprietary BoardSafe Bulkhead Mounting System. Because the concrete varied in elevation, a rubber transition strip was installed to provide a smooth transition from the concrete walkways leading onto the aluminum welded gangway.
The rowing docks are approximately 2000 sq feet with a freeboard of 6 inches. They are constructed using aluminum-welded frames with composite decking featuring the TimberStrong Fastening System. The fasteners are attached between boards, rather than on top, negating the possibility of screws popping out of the decking. Philadelphia winters and the current on the Schuylkill can be harsh, and the construction of their new docks will offer greater longevity and lower maintenance from the freezing and thawing that occurs along the river. Supporting the floating docks are non-polluting flotation made with plastic encapsulated foam.
The iconic "split P" logo the University of Pennsylvania is known for was added to the center of their gangway. Their new quality rowing docks system and gangway will add to the legacy Penn is creating.
For history buffs, you may learn more about the University of Pennsylvania’s history of rowing in this link, which is among one of the oldest collegiate boathouses in the country.
archives.upenn.edu/exhibits/penn-history/crew/boat-club/
BoardSafe Docks specializes in design consultation, engineering, and manufacturing of rowing centers, marinas, adaptive kayak launches, fishing piers, gangways, and pedestrian bridges. They will work with you to ensure your project is accessible to the widest range of users ensuring that the necessary accessible and adaptive features are not overlooked. As the industry leader, BoardSafe was honored to design and manufacture the gangway and rowing docks for this historical locale that has become the envy of other collegiate rowing centers.
Below are video links to other successful rowing center projects that make BoardSafe Docks the most experienced and trusted expert for collegiate rowing centers looking for the highest-performing rowing docks. Their product designs will help attract the highest caliber rowers.
Texas Rowing Center - the World Class Rowing Center Built by BoardSafe Docks
Temple University's Rowing Center in Philadelphia
To learn more about BoardSafe Docks's additional projects and capabilities, you can view our "About Us" video here:
BoardSafe Docks: Manufacturer of Marinas, Rowing Centers, Adaptive Launches, Gangways & Bridges
For more information about this project and others, or for consultation, visit us at boardsafedocks.com or call 610-899-0286.
Accessible Launch with Adaptive Features Welcomed in Couderay, WI
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Fisheries, recently installed two BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launches along the Couderay River in Couderay and Radisson, Wisconsin. The installation was part of the collaboration between Wisconsin DNR and BoardSafe Docks. Their goal was to provide inclusive access to the river for paddlers with disabilities, fishermen, residents, and visitors, who enjoy the prolific fishing and paddling in their clean and nature-filled waters.
Wisconsin DNR developed a plan to provide paddle craft access to the Couderay River where it did not previously exist. They had two sites in mind for a put-in and take-out, but each location had design challenges that needed to be overcome. “Working with BoardSafe allowed us to identify creative designs and solutions for each site that made this project possible,” said Max Wolter, project coordinator for the adaptive launches.
Below is BoardSafe’s drawing of Couderay’s project:
The Couderay project included:
- customer-installed bulkhead
- 5-foot by 20-foot aluminum gangway
- one (1) 8 x 16 aluminum floating dock, composite decking, plastic encapsulated flotation, and BoardSafe proprietary extrusions
- BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch with Boarding Kit
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Videos of the Couderay and Radisson project can be viewed here:
- Couderay River Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch in Couderay Wisconsin
- Adaptive and Accessible Kayak Launches Installed for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
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The uniqueness of this accessible project
The Couderay River never had formal access points for paddle craft. BoardSafe Docks, a leader in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of accessible floating docks, came up with a design solution that would allow the Wisconsin DNR to offer its communities and tourists accessible locations to fish and kayak and enjoy the beauty of the river. BoardSafe’s solution allows people of all abilities to confidently plan a day trip down the river knowing they will have quality infrastructure for launching and taking out their vessels.
Couderay serves as headquarters for an organization called "Fishing Has No Boundaries," which hosts fishing events for people living with disabilities. Fishing Has No Boundaries was an appreciated contributing partner to the project and a stakeholder in wanting to provide inclusive launches for the disabled angling community. The adaptive launches installed in Couderay and Radisson will help them better serve their mission.
What adaptive features make the launches accessible to all?
The adaptive features found in the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch make it accessible to a broader range of users. The launch was designed for adaptive paddlers with input from paddlers in wheelchairs who were looking for an easier way to access the water. The empowering features include an ADA-compliant gangway (less than a 1/12 pitch), a protective toe-kick around the perimeter of the floating dock, an adaptive roll cage that starts with a seat equal to the height of a wheelchair and includes a 3.5-inch step-down bench, a pullout, bleacher-style seat, an overhead grab bar that allows the user to slide down either side of the bench of their preference, overhead grab straps to lower oneself into the vessel, a cradle that keeps the kayak level and stable upon entry, and pull-bars to enter into the water with a controlled entry.
What makes Couderay worth a visit?
Couderay is a small, sleepy town with less than 100 permanent, year-round residents as noted in the latest U.S. Census. The name "Couderay" was derived from the name given to the area by French explorers: Lac Courte Oreilles.
Kayaking isn’t the only attraction along the Couderay River; kayak fishing is another very popular attraction in the area. Their new inclusive launches will offer access to outdoor enthusiasts, residents, and visitors, who enjoy the prolific fishing and paddling along their beautiful waterway.
Nature abounds in Couderay, where they keep their waters clean for nature lovers and work hard to protect their fish and wildlife. The following videos capture the beauty offered to its visitors:
- Mama Bear and 3 Cubs - Chippewa Flowage, Couderay Wi.
- Couderay Waters Watershed Paddle Tour Couderay Waters Watershed Paddle Tour protects, preserves, and promotes the natural history and beauty of the water.
Visitors to the area may also wish to visit the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame, the LumberJack World Championships, and Al Capone’s Hideout, all close by.
BoardSafe Docks understands the benefits and impact their adaptive launch system offers to communities and park systems. The feature-rich launch offers safe, easy, and inclusive access to the water. It is fitted for both kayaks and canoes and has an available option designed to work for SUPS.
BoardSafe Docks is the trusted expert for those who desire only the best-engineered and highest-quality aluminum floating docks, gangways, and launch systems. BoardSafe’s design, engineering, and quality manufacturing make them an industry leader for commercial aluminum floating docks, adaptive kayak launches, gangways, and pedestrian bridges. Their product line is recognized by customers seeking long-term value, reliability, and durability in order to access the great outdoors.
For more information about this project and others, visit us at boardsafedocks.com or call us at 610-899-0286.
BoardSafe Celebrates Cape Coral's Voice of the People Awards
November 8, 2022—The City of Cape Coral, Florida, was recognized with two Voice of the People Awards for "Transformation in Economy" and "Transformation in Mobility."
The Voice of the People Awards (VOP) are the only local government awards based on residents' opinions. They are presented jointly by the National Research Center (NRC) at Polco and the International City-County Management Association (ICMA).
Based on results from the National Community Survey, Cape Coral's residents agree that the city has significantly improved its mobility and economy. The survey measured resident opinions about the quality of life in their community.
Factors that led to winning the "Transformation in Mobility" award include a citywide effort to provide overall ease of travel, and to include additional, interconnecting paths, walking trails, and bicycle paths. Cape Coral is the only City in Southwest Florida with ADA-accessible kayak launches.
The City has two ADA-compatible kayak launches: One is at Sirenia Vista Park and the other is at Saratoga Lake Park. BoardSafe manufactured the two ADA-compliant kayak launches at the above-mentioned parks, and contracted with the city for their fabrication and installation.
Radisson, WI, Residents Gain ADA Access with BoardSafe Docks
Along the Couderay River in Radisson, Wisconsin, an adaptive and accessible kayak launch was installed in October 2022. It provides universal access to the river regardless of ability or disability and has numerous ADA-inspired features.
The installation was the culmination of a 2-year collaboration between BoardSafe Docks and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Fisheries.
Wisconsin DNR has been committed to improving outdoor recreation opportunities for people of all abilities. Whether on land or on the water, the DNR is hopeful that everyone will find their niche and enjoy new recreational opportunities. The DNR has been promoting access, inclusion, equity, and healthy living, and encouraging residents and visitors to explore the great outdoors. The BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch will help increase dignity and freedom for individuals with mobility issues and build closer connections among friends and family while increasing accessibility and participation for adaptive paddlers at their parks. See photos below.
Not only does the kayak launch help paddlers into the water; there is also a 120-foot-long accessible composite boardwalk that is leading from a trailhead access area. The boardwalk is supported by fiberglass pilings and consists of prefabricated aluminum deck sections. The frame of the boardwalk is an aluminum tube frame with composite decking featuring the TimberStrong fastening system.
There is an aluminum toe kick along the boardwalk as well as an integrated hinge for attachment to the gangway. The boardwalk leads to a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch on the Couderay River.
The aluminum gangway measures 5’ wide x 8’ long and is attached to an aluminum floating dock that is 8’ x 16’. The kayak launch has BoardSafe’s adaptive boarding kit for an easy transition in and out of vessels.
- Installed October 2022
- 120-foot-long composite boardwalk
- Fiberglass pilings
- Prefabricated aluminum deck sections
- Aluminum tube frame
- Composite decking featuring the TimberStrong fastening system
- Aluminum toe kick
- Integrated hinge for attachment of gangway
- BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch
- 5’ x 8’ gangway
- 8’ x 16’ floating dock
- BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch
- Adaptive boarding kit
The uniqueness of this accessible project
The accessibility of this project not only assists adaptive paddlers getting to the kayak launch, into their vessel, and out onto the water by utilizing the adaptive features designed to accommodate paddlers in wheelchairs, but boasts a 120-foot long accessible, composite boardwalk leading from the trailhead access area to the river. The 120-ft. boardwalk is supported by fiberglass pilings with prefabricated aluminum deck sections. The frame of the boardwalk is an aluminum tube frame using composite decking connected with the hidden, TimberStrong fastening system. An aluminum, protective toe kick is found along the boardwalk’s edge and an integrated hinge attaches the gangway to its concrete foundation. This custom walkway offers accessibility to the adaptive launch inviting those with physical limitations a safer and easier way to access and paddler on the river. This project models inclusivity and accessibility for all.
Radisson’s hope
Radisson is a small town with less than 300 permanent, year-round residents noted by the latest US Census. Why would a small town invest in a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch? BoardSafe Docks understands the benefits and impact their adaptive launch system offers to communities and park systems. It offers the safe, easy, and inclusive access to the water. The inclusive launch is fitted for kayaks, canoes, and can also work for SUPS. Kayaking isn’t the only attraction along Radisson’s waterway; kayak fishing is another very popular attraction to the park. Radisson may now offer their inclusive access to various outdoor enthusiasts and become a local treasure for residents and visitors to enjoy for generations to come.
Benefits of River Access
River access points are known to be gateways of opportunities for paddlers to enjoy the experience of being on the water. Accessible river access offers socialization; it brings people together and affords the ability to connect families and friends to nature and to their community.
River access points also offer economic benefit to local communties. Investments in river access can increase visitor spending, create jobs, and support local businesses and government. Diverse partnerships have the potential to develop along river communities and there is demonstrated success for communities who’ve made the investment.
A second Adaptive Kayak Launch was also installed in Couderay, WI, and can be viewed here.
The adaptive features found in BoardSafe’s kayak launch offer safer and easier access to the water and work for a wider range of users. Features typically include a paved pathway from the parking lot to the launch, an ADA-compliant gangway (less than a 1/12 pitch), a protective toe-kick around the perimeter of the floating dock, an adaptive roll cage that includes a 3.5-inch step-down bench, a pullout seat, an overhead grab bar that allows the user to slide down either side of the bench of their preference, optional overhead grab straps to lower oneself into the vessel, a cradle the keeps the kayak level and stable upon entry, and pull bars to enter into the water through a controlled entry.
"The aluminum floating kayak launch system has unique adaptive features that offer paddlers with disabilities or mobility limitations the opportunity to get safely from their wheelchair and into a kayak and back out again," says Scott Tihansky, of BoardSafe Docks.
BoardSafe Docks works regularly with adaptive paddling groups, veteran groups, park and recreation departments, governmental leaders, landscape architects, and design engineers looking to make their waterfront accessible to all.
BoardSafe Docks is the trusted expert for those who desire only the best-engineered and highest-quality aluminum floating docks, gangways, and launch systems.
If you’re looking to make your community's parks, rivers, lakes, and other natural areas more accessible for people of all abilities, contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286. You may also visit the BoardSafeDocks.com website to see other project profiles to learn how BoardSafe Docks has the capability to design, engineer, and manufacture accessible and adaptive products for those who appreciate the outdoors and want to ensure all will be able to access the great outdoors.
Testimonial
Just made it down to see the fully completed project at Radisson. WOW! Both look fantastic. I’m going to be showing these off to lots of folks around the state and telling the tale of how nice it was working with your outfit. I have a feeling you’ll be back in Wisconsin for many more jobs!
Please let me know if there is any other follow-up needed from us or if there are any snafus with getting payments. I’m with you all the way to the finish line on this one! Very relieved and happy to have the big install step done though!
P Max H. Wolter, Fisheries Biologist
Hayward Service Center
To make your community's parks, rivers, lakes, and other natural areas more accessible for all abilities, visit BoardSafeDocks.com.
Couderay, WI, Installs Safe, Accessible BoardSafe Kayak Launch
In October 2022, BoardSafe Docks installed a new adaptive kayak launch providing all abilities universal access to enjoy the outdoors. The floating dock and adaptive launch system include a 5-foot by 20-foot gangway, an 8 x 16 aluminum floating dock, and a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch with Boarding Kit (ADA-inspired features).
The adaptive kayak launch system is anchored into the bank with a concrete bulkhead that is 12 feet long. A bulkhead mounting kit and turnbuckle with cable system help secure the gangway floating dock and the 5‘ x 20‘ gangway leads to the floating dock and adaptive kit. The aluminum floating dock has an aluminum frame with composite lumber decking that measures 8 feet wide by 16 feet long. On the river side of the floating dock is a BoardSafe adaptive kayak launch that is 16 feet long and includes an accessible boarding kit, pull-out bench, overhead grab bars, and an instructional sign for a convenient transition on and off of the water.
Couderay, WI
- Installed October 2022
- Customer-installed bulkhead
- 5-foot by 20-foot gangway
- One (1) 8' x 16' floating dock
- BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch with Boarding Kit
Wisconsin Gains Two BoardSafe Aluminum Dock Systems
BoardSafe is the trusted expert for water access projects for federal, state, and county parks and recreation management.
In October 2022, BoardSafe concluded a 2-year collaboration with Wisconsin’s Bureau of Fisheries Management to design, manufacture, and install both the Couderay and Radisson projects.
The Radisson project was installed in October 2022 and includes a 120-foot-long composite boardwalk from a trailhead access area. The boardwalk is supported by fiberglass pilings and consists of prefabricated aluminum deck sections. The frame of the boardwalk is an aluminum tube frame with composite decking featuring the TimberStrong fastening system. There is an aluminum toe kick along the boardwalk as well as an integrated hinge for attachment to the gangway.
Click here for more information.
The boardwalk leads to a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch on the Couderay River. The aluminum gangway measures 5’ wide x 8’ long and is attached to an aluminum floating dock that is 8’ x 16’.
The kayak launch has BoardSafe’s adaptive boarding kit for an easy transition in and out of vessels.
Located further upstream is Couderay, WI.
This adaptive kayak launch system is anchored into the bank with a concrete bulkhead that is 12 feet long. A bulkhead mounting kit and turnbuckle with cable system help secure the gangway floating dock, and the 5‘ x 20‘ gangway leads to the floating dock and adaptive kit.
Click here for more information.
The aluminum floating dock has an aluminum frame with composite lumber decking that measures 8 feet wide by 16 feet long. On the river side of the floating dock is a BoardSafe adaptive kayak launch that is 16 feet long and includes an accessible boarding kit, pull-out bench, overhead grab bars, and an instructional sign for a convenient transition on and off the water.