Norris Dam State Park Expands Water Access for All!
Norris Dam State Park is now more accessible than ever with the addition of two new waterfront access points at Norris Lake: a BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch, designed to make paddling possible for people of all abilities, and a BoardSafe Courtesy Boat Dock.
This collaborative project between the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and Tennessee State Parks also included parking lot and drainage improvements, creating a safer and more welcoming experience for all visitors.
The new adaptive launch allows paddlers, including those who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility, the ability to transfer into their kayak with greater confidence and independence. By separating motorized boat traffic from paddle craft, the new courtesy dock also improves safety and enhances the overall boating experience.
At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, TVA representative Brian Ross, highlighted how the project expands public access while supporting the shared commitment of TVA and Tennessee State Parks to provide outstanding outdoor recreation opportunities and protect Tennessee’s natural resources for future generations.
Learn more about the project's ribbon-cutting ceremony here: New upgrades finished at Norris Lake access point in Campbell County
BoardSafe Docks is proud to have designed, engineered, and manufactured the accessible infrastructure, continuing our mission to remove barriers and create universal access to water.
For more than 20 years, BoardSafe Docks has partnered with parks, municipalities, and recreation agencies across the country to design and manufacture commercial waterfront infrastructure, including adaptive kayak launches, floating docks, marinas, gangways, fishing piers, rowing centers, and pedestrian bridges.
Ready to make your waterfront accessible for everyone? Give us a call 📞 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website 🌐 BoardSafeDocks.com.
#BoardSafeDocks #AccessYourAdventure #AdaptiveKayakLaunch #Accessibility #UniversalDesign #TennesseeStateParks #TVA #NorrisLake #OutdoorRecreation
Meredith Adaptive Launch Brings Universal Access to Leavitt Park
The Town of Meredith, New Hampshire, has taken a significant step toward creating a more inclusive waterfront experience with the installation of a new BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch at Leavitt Park. This innovative addition will provide residents and visitors of all abilities with safe, independent access to the waters of Lake Winnipesaukee, reinforcing the community’s commitment to ensuring that outdoor recreation is accessible to everyone.
For many individuals with mobility challenges, the simple act of launching a kayak can present significant barriers, and often what keeps them away. Traditional boat launches and shoreline access points often make it difficult or impossible for paddlers with disabilities, seniors, veterans, or individuals recovering from injuries to safely enter and exit a kayak. The new BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch eliminates many of these obstacles through thoughtfully designed adaptive features that support greater independence and confidence on the water.
Located along the scenic shoreline of Leavitt Park, the launch creates new opportunities for residents and visitors to experience the physical, emotional, and social benefits of paddlesports. Access to the water promotes active lifestyles, encourages outdoor exploration, and fosters connections with nature that can improve overall well-being. It welcomes good stewardship of our natural resources, and many friendships are formed on this common ground.
The project at Leavitt Park would not have been possible without the dedication and vision of Paula Wanzer, Chair of the Meredith Adaptive Launch Committee. Recognizing the need for improved waterfront accessibility, Wanzer spearheaded the effort to bring the project to life and, along with a very committed team, served as the driving force behind raising awareness throughout their community.
Wanzer first introduced the BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch concept to the Meredith Parks and Recreation Department, local community organizations, and the Rotary Club. She and her team worked tirelessly to build support, educate stakeholders about the importance of universal accessibility, and inspire community members to invest in a project that would benefit generations to come.
The team’s commitment reflects a broader vision embraced by the Town of Meredith, one that recognizes that public parks and recreational opportunities should be available to everyone, regardless of age, ability, or physical limitations. At the launch’s recent ribbon cutting, Wanzer shared sentiments that “Accessibility is about more than compliance; it’s about belonging. This launch ensures that more people can experience the joy, freedom, and therapeutic benefits of being on the water.”
Read more about the ribbon cutting here: Ribbon-cutting at Meredith Adaptive Paddling Launch marks new chapter in town’s commitment to supporting residents | Boating | laconiadailysun.com
BoardSafe Docks is proud to partner with communities like Meredith that are committed to removing barriers and creating universal access to water. Projects like the Meredith Adaptive Launch serve as powerful examples of how thoughtful infrastructure can strengthen communities, increase recreational opportunities, and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of life on the water.
The new accessible launch at Leavitt Park stands as a lasting reminder that when accessibility becomes a priority, entire communities benefit.
For more information on finding an access solution to your waterfront for paddling, fishing, or boating, contact BoardSafeDocks.com.
Ellsworth River Park Improves Access with BoardSafe Kayak Launch
Another community is expanding access to the water!
A new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch has been installed at Ellsworth River Park in Michigan, serving as a key access point along the 100-mile Chain of Lakes Water Trail.
Designed for paddlers of all abilities, the launch features an ADA gangway, a wheelchair-height boarding bench with a pullout seat, overhead grab bars, grab straps, pull bars, and a secure kayak cradle that provides stability during entry and exit.
The Ellsworth installation represents another important milestone in a broader regional initiative to create a fully accessible point-to-point paddling experience throughout the Chain of Lakes Water Trail. Similar BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launches have recently been installed at Elk Rapids Rotary Park and other locations across Michigan, expanding recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
A formal ribbon-cutting for Ellsworth River Park is scheduled for September 2026 during the annual Paddle Antrim Festival. Paddle Antrim continues to lead efforts to remove barriers and improve accessibility along the water trail, ensuring that more people can experience the beauty and benefits of Michigan's waterways.
As Paddle Antrim Executive Director Deana Jerdee stated, "We are not just adding infrastructure; we are removing barriers."
At BoardSafe Docks, we believe access to the water should be available to everyone. As the industry leader in designing, engineering, and manufacturing accessible waterfront infrastructure, we work closely with park systems, municipalities, and engineers to create accessible solutions that provide safe, reliable, and inclusive access to the water.
Interested in improving accessibility at your waterfront destination? BoardSafe Docks offers complimentary site assessments to help identify the best solution for your location. Contact us at BoardSafeDocks.com and discover why communities trust BoardSafe to deliver innovative, durable, and universally accessible waterfront infrastructure.
#AdaptiveKayakLaunch #AccessibleRecreation #UniversalAccess #InclusiveOutdoors #PaddleAntrim #ChainOfLakesWaterTrail #AccessYourAdventure
Hudson Crossing Cuts Ribbon at BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch
On April 28, 2026, BoardSafe Docks proudly celebrated the ribbon-cutting for the new BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch at Lock C5 Island in Schuylerville, New York. The event brought together community leaders, outdoor recreation advocates, and accessibility champions to commemorate a significant step forward in inclusive waterfront access along the historic Champlain Canal.
The celebration featured remarks from Hudson Crossing Park Executive Director Kate Morse and representatives from the New York State Canal Corporation, who highlighted the importance of expanding recreational opportunities while preserving the region’s rich canal heritage.
This project marks the first BoardSafe Docks installation on the Champlain Canal, a historically significant waterway connecting Lake Champlain to the Erie Canal and the Hudson River. Managed by the Canal Corporation, the Champlain Canal and other feeder canals, including the Cayuga Canal linking the Finger Lakes region to the Erie Canal and the Oswego Canal connecting Lake Ontario to the Erie Canal, are part of ongoing enhancement efforts through 2028. These waterways continue to play a vital role in New York’s history, tourism, and outdoor recreation economy.
One of the most inspiring moments of the ribbon-cutting came when Jim Nolan, former Town of Greenwich Supervisor and a Hudson Crossing Park committee member living with quadriplegia, demonstrated the adaptive launch's effectiveness by independently accessing the water. His experience powerfully illustrated the mission behind every BoardSafe project: creating safe, inclusive outdoor access for people of all abilities.
The new BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch incorporates several innovative accessibility features designed to support adaptive paddlers and improve independent water access, including:
- A four-step boarding bench that allows users to transition from a wheelchair or standing position into a kayak safely and comfortably.
- An overhead grab bar, grab straps, and pull-out sliding bench that provide additional leverage and stability during boarding.
- An accessible gangway connecting the floating dock system directly to the park’s trail network.
- Adaptive paddling support equipment from Creating Ability, including kayaks equipped with stability outriggers, higher seat backs, and one-hand paddle mounts.
This accessible launch system was connected to an existing dock at the site, with installation completed by Schultz Contracting.
BoardSafe Docks continues to lead the industry in accessible outdoor recreation infrastructure, helping parks, municipalities, and waterfront destinations create meaningful opportunities for everyone to enjoy nature, paddling, fishing, and life on the water.
For more information about improving accessibility at your park, stream, or waterfront, contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 to discuss customized solutions for your accessibility challenges.
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
Celebrating BoardSafe Access at the William R. Gaines Park
Charlotte County Commissioner Stephen R. Deutsch recently joined Paddle 4 Heroes, the Charlotte County Veterans Council, members of our veterans community, and fellow residents to cut the ribbon on the park’s new BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch.
This project represents years of collaboration and commitment to make William R. Gaines Jr. Memorial Park a place that honors service, strengthens community, and ensures every resident can enjoy the outdoors with dignity and independence.
“As a disabled veteran, I know firsthand how meaningful true accessibility can be. When we remove barriers, we open doors, not just for recreation, but for connection, healing, and belonging. I’m proud to see our community come together to make this possible for all of our citizens,” said Commissioner Stephen R. Deutsch during the ceremony.
"It’s truly an honor to be part of the William R. Gaines Jr. Veterans Memorial Park and the Beirut Peacekeepers Tower. This is a powerful story that must be told and remembered," commented Stephen J. Fleming, the man behind much of the fundraising for the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch that was recently installed at the park.
Reconized for their participation was American Legion Post 110 for the presentation and retirement of colors; Master of Ceremony Lee Hale, U.S. Navy; Rev. Kevin Shaw, USMC, for the Invocation and Benediction; Jay Hemingway for leading the Pledge of Allegiance and Star Spangled Banner; Stephen R. Deutsch, USCG and Charlotte County Commissioner; Jeff Mosher, Beirut Veteran USMC; Charlie Foxtrot Brewing, Mission Barbeque, Durti Runners, Sweet Sparkman Architecture & Interiors, Willis Smith Construction, Jackson Signs, & BoardSafe Docks for manufacturing the accessible kayak launch and donating T-shirts to those attending the ribbon cutting ceremony.
The project was made possible with partial funding from Paddle for Heroes, a (501) (C3) non-profit working in cooperation with the county.
It took about two years to complete the permitting and approval documentation so kayaks and canoes can launch into the tributaries and canals into Charlotte Harbor. The work did not distrupt sea grass or small tooth sawfish living in the local tributaries. There was also “upland construction” to improve existing sidewalks and parking.
Learn more about the park’s plan and accessible amenities here: William R. Gaines Veterans Memorial Park, Charlotte County, FL, recognizes veterans and first responders with accessible park amenities.
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.
Northville, NY, BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch in the News
July 22, 2025
It’s been a humbling week at BoardSafe Docks. Our Adaptive Kayak Launch received a lot of press in the last two weeks. 👏👏👏 Our kayak launch caters to a wide range of abilities, providing universal access to paddlers seeking to enjoy the water.
BoardSafe’s Launch was recently featured in the Adirondack Explorer Magazine.
You can read the full article here: ADA-compliant kayak launch opens Northville Lake to all Adirondack paddlers, or listen to it here: on.soundcloud.com/D3jTBZzWpjwPrRmvH.
BoardSafe’s Kayak Launch is one of the first of its kind in the Adirondacks and is making an impact for all who are looking for an easier way to enter and exit their kayaks.
Learn more about the launch by watching BoardSafe’s YouTube video:
https://youtu.be/wgoPlmAgtV8?si=jp9UHSThHM4aiOVq
We’re sure you’ll want to visit this serene lake on your next visit here! 🚣
facebook.com/share/r/16bGRcmR66/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Thank you, Northville Rotary Club, for partnering with BoardSafe Docks!
BoardSafe Docks is an industry leader in designing, engineering, and manufacturing aluminum marine access systems. With a focus on innovation, BoardSafe is known for our expertise, innovative problem-solving, and collaboration with clients to create customized solutions. Our high-quality products, which include adaptive kayak launches, accessible fishing piers, floating dock systems, gangways, and pedestrian bridges, are built to withstand challenging environmental conditions.
BoardSafe is committed to accessibility and will guide our customers to create systems that offer universal access and provide accommodations for a wide range of user abilities.
Contact us at BoardSafeDocks and allow us to assist you with improving water access points at your lake, river, or community, or give us a call at 610-899-0286 for your free consultation. #AccessYourAdventure
Pickwick TN Adds BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch to Park Amenities
BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA, is helping to connect anglers, and now kayakers, to Bill Dance Signature Lakes throughout Tennessee State Parks.
Those who love to fish in Tennessee waters are seeing significant improvements to their lakes, thanks to the Bill Dance Signature Lakes initiative. Legendary fisherman Bill Dance is the inspiration behind the Signature Lakes program. For over five decades, the bass fishing superstar has taught generations how to fish. Dance, who is the most recognized bass angler of all time. became famous not only for fishing, but for his TV shows: Bill Dance Outdoors and Bill Dance Saltwater. Dance’s Signature Lakes initiative is a collaborative effort of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Tennessee State Parks, and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Their goal is to improve and enhance Tennessee Lakes, increase visitation, and honor Dance’s legacy.
In 2023, BoardSafe Docks improved fishing and boating access to Pickwick Dam by designing, engineering, and manufacturing improvements to the lakes’ gangways, courtesy boat docks, and accessible fishing piers. BoardSafe’s system and fishing piers attract local anglers and are a well-known and popular launch location for many professional bass tournaments, like the Bassmaster Elite Series and the Collegiate Bass Championship.
View the project video here: Floating Dock System at Pickwick Dam in Tennessee.
As of June 2025, recreational kayakers can enjoy the same top-notch experience. The recent addition of a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch is another welcome amenity and another big draw for the park. People love to kayak, and the new launch will offer an additional form of water recreation to its visitors.
We’re often asked, “Who can use the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch?”
BoardSafe’s adaptive launch is designed and manufactured with specific features that make it safer and easier for paddlers in wheelchairs to access their kayaking vessel. The aluminum-welded frame, side-by-side gangway and chute, roll cage with overhead grab bar, optional hand straps, and slide-down seat with a pull-out bench provide universal access, so everyone benefits.
However, one of the best testaments to BoardSafe’s launching system is the ability to launch your kayak and keep your feet dry, with no fear of tipping your vessel. The secure cradle keeps the kayak steady until it enters the water.
While the features have been designed and engineered with adaptive paddlers in mind, the launch offers access solutions that make it easier for everyone and can be used by anyone who wants to get out and paddle on the water. The launch connects paddlers to nature and offers a unique blend of adventure, activity, and a deeper connection to the environment and the many joys that kayaking brings.
About BoardSafe Docks
BoardSafe Docks is the trusted designer, engineer, and manufacturer of aluminum floating courtesy docks, adaptive kayak launches, accessible fishing piers, gangways, and pedestrian bridges. The sales team at BoardSafe Docks is always available for questions and consultation. They will assist you with finding your optimal waterfront solution by talking through your challenges and recommending a customized solution for your waterfront. Our systems provide individualized and custom solutions, ensuring the best possible user experience and a long-lasting system for our customers. They’re not just selling you a commodity, and their expertise, knowledge, and success in the industry are a step above the rest.
Here are project profiles that make BoardSafe Docks unique:
BoardSafe Creates Paddle Access to Chattahoochee River, GA
Tulsa’s Adaptive Kayak Launch: A Model of Accessibility & Innovation
BoardSafe’s innovative, floating designs enable the creation of new access sites and the updating and improvement of existing access sites. We work closely with landscape architects, engineers, and project planning teams to find the best solution for unique access points. For additional information, visit our website at BoardSafeDocks.com or give the sales and design team a call at 1-610-899-0286 to assist you with your design solution. #AccessYourAdventure
Great Day for Upstream Alliance: Cooper River Water Trail Opening
On Saturday, June 7, 2025, more than 450 Camden residents joined Upstream Alliance to celebrate the grand opening of the Cooper River Water Trail in Camden County, New Jersey. The day was packed with family-friendly activities, including kayaking from the new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, nature walks, fishing lessons, a kids' fishing tournament, and more, all designed to connect the community with the water.
Photo credits Julia Baugh, Upstream Alliance
Upstream Alliance was able to get about 120 people out kayaking from their new BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch, while another 60 people tried their skill at canoeing on the other side of the park. Since most of the residents were first-time paddlers and had never been on the water before, they all received a paddling lesson before they got into the kayaks and canoes. The new kayakers paddled around the fishing basin, then came back to land to enjoy other events going on in the park. The energy onshore matched the excitement on the water, with face painting, games, kite flying, bubbles, lots of free food, and other festive activities filling the park.
The Cooper River Water Trail, a 15.5-mile route connecting the Back Channel of the Delaware River to Cooper River, is the result of a collaborative effort led by Upstream Alliance and supported by Camden County, the New Jersey Conservation Foundation, and other partners: Camden County Parks Department, the Center for Aquatic Sciences at Adventure Aquarium, Cooper's Ferry Partnership, and the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. The trail promotes recreation, environmental awareness, and stewardship while improving equitable access to nature for local communities.
Fueled by a $500,000 grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, this milestone event was a celebration of years of work by passionate advocates for clean water and environmental education. Upstream Alliance’s mission—to connect people with nature through on-the-water experience—was truly brought to life on Saturday, with its many hands-on learning activities for the children.
The day left the attendees with happy memories, a newfound connection to the water, and a better understanding of its history, as they experienced the importance Cooper River lends to the Camden community. BoardSafe Docks would like to credit Julia Baugh and Kara Foran for sharing the pictures related to this ribbon-cutting event.
Photo credit: Kara Foran, Upstream Alliance
Upstream Alliance is a non-profit organization focused on the environment. Their group connects people with nature, mostly through in-water experiences on waterways. They address issues like improving access, providing educational enrichment to students about improving water quality, and creating educational experiences for students that promote conservation, develop an understanding and appreciation for watersheds, and work to improve water quality. Upstream Alliance hopes the improved waters of the Cooper River will become a locally accessible recreation destination for all those living in Camden County.
Plan your trip here: camdencounty.com/.../cooper-river-water-trail/
BoardSafe Docks is happy to work with Upstream Alliance and support them in their mission to create improved access to the new river trail. BoardSafe understands the value their systems bring to communities, particularly in the realm of accessibility and water recreation.
BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch can:
- Improve communities for recreation-loving individuals and provide Universal Access to all those looking to get out and paddle on the water.
- Promote healthy living by connecting families and friends with each other and with nature, and encouraging good stewardship of natural resources.
- Enhance adaptive recreation for those who require additional accommodations, modifications, or features to access the water, including in-water rehabilitation, exercise, socialization, and improving overall health and wellness.
- Provide industry leadership to help customers design a system that will work for their needs, as well as the body of water they are located on. BoardSafe’s consultative services and expertise have guided successful project installations across the country, making them an industry leader in designing, engineering, and manufacturing all-inclusive water access systems.
If you are interested in creating or improving your waterfront access, 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 Docks’ projects at our website, BoardSafeDocks.com, or by calling 610-899-0286.