Handicapped-accessible kayak launch is ready for use

Our new handicapped-accessible kayak launch is ready for use! You’ll find it on the Canal path by the parking lot for the Town’s Sewer Department Office at 3899 Monroe Avenue. The launch makes it easier than ever to get on the water and enjoy the beauty of our canal, especially for those whose mobility is limited. The gangway and docking area are sloped to accommodate wheelchair use. Guiderails and handrails make the launch easy to navigate for everyone. The nylon kayak slide offers access and stability when launching and docking. You can use it to launch paddleboards and canoes as well!

The launch offers convenience for everyone, including kayakers whose mobility is limited. Paddlers can get on the water more easily than ever before, to enjoy the beauty of our canal. The gangway and docking area are sloped to accommodate wheelchair use. Guiderails and handrails make the launch easy to navigate for everyone. The nylon kayak slide offers access and stability when launching and docking. It’s great for launching paddleboards and canoes as well!

Our ribbon-cutting dedication on July 11, 2022 culminated nearly three years of work by Town staff, starting with the extensive permitting process. The State Canal Corporation, the Army Corps of Engineers, the State Historic Preservation Office and the State Department of Environmental Conservation – all were involved in granting approvals necessary to make this project a reality.

Jane Weerasinghe, a member of the Erie Canal Watertrail Steward Program, joined us for the dedication. The Stewards help keep the canal and canal trail clean. They provide useful information for boaters and walkers.

We’re particularly grateful to Brian Stratton, Director of the New York State Canal Corporation for his consistent support for the project and assistance in working out some last-minute engineering issues.

Thanks to Public Works Commissioner Paul Schenkel, to Sewer Department Foreman Jim Peterson and to the members of our Parks, Sewer and Highway departments whose work made this project a reality.

And special thanks to local artist and Town resident Barbara Jablonski. It was Barbara who first suggested to the idea for this project to Town Supervisor Bill Smith. We were glad to have her join in cutting the ribbon – and then take off paddling from the dock! Happy paddling Barbara – and to all of you who will use our new canal launch to get out on the water.

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