The Town of Montgomery’s Benedict Farm Park received a huge upgrade last Friday, May 17: a brand-new, ADA-compliant kayak launch and dock along Wallkill River, equipped with everything needed for visitors with disabilities, such as those who use wheelchairs, to board their kayaks comfortably.

The dock includes a ramp, edge guards that prevent wheelchairs from falling off, a transfer bench and slide boards with two heights, a railing system for moving in and out of the water, and rollers for gliding kayaks into the river. The installation was approved under the ADA or the Americans with Disabilities Act, a law passed in 1990 prohibiting discrimination against disabilities.

“This is greatly appreciated and the inclusivity is very important,” said Tracy Wallis, ADA-compliance coordinator for Independent Living Inc., during the dock’s ribbon cutting. “Thank you for this. I can take my kids fishing here now.”

Theron Adkins, recreation director of the town’s parks, approached the board two years ago seeking an accessible kayak launch for Benedict Farm Park. The board, under former supervisor Brian Maher, approved the project and provided funding through ARPA, or the American Rescue Plan Act. From there, the board and Adkins worked with EZ Dock, a floating dock manufacturer, to choose the perfect design for the park. Flash forward to May and the kayak launch was fully installed and ready for use.

“We’re beyond satisfied with the craftsmanship. It looks on the river and it’s going to generate some buzz in the town,” said Adkins, adding that he would continue increasing accessibility for all the town’s parks.

Several town officials held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the park last Friday to commemorate the dock’s completion and express how thrilled they were that residents with disabilities can more easily enjoy kayaking on Wallkill River.

“Lots of towns want to be accessible, and we advocate for inclusivity for many different towns,” said Wallis. “This project is amazing, great, and inclusive, and we hope it inspires other towns to follow suit.”