Access temporarily denied
LISA HOBBS - News Editor
Visitors to Riverfront Park today, July 27, are finding barriers blocking them from accessing the lower-level parking lot and the pavilion at Elizabeth’s Overlook.
That’s Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency, according to McMinnville Parks and Recreation Department Director Justin Scott.
“TWRA is adding gravel to the lower level and spreading it for us,” Scott stated, when questioned about the closure. “It should be finished today, and we can open the left lower side for parking.”
That work comes as the city plans to install an adaptive kayak launch on the lower right side of that parking area, which will remain closed to the public even after the lower left side reopens.
An adaptive kayak launch will allow people of all ages and abilities to feel confident transferring into their watercraft independently and provides extra stability when launching. Funding for the project was obtained by the city through a Tourism Enhancement Grant.
When asked about specifics, Scott provided the following project summary:
The project consists of an adaptive kayak launch system that includes a 4’x16’ single-rail gangway, a 4’x16’ kayak chute, and one 8’2”x16’4” floating dock equipped with a kayak launch and adaptive boarding kit. BoardSafe Docks will manufacture the kayak launch system and coordinate shipping. BoardSafe Docks will also contract directly with Blue Water Docks for both foundation installation (re-cast blocks) and full system installation. TWRA will be responsible for any necessary site preparation, including excavation for pre-cast block placement.
“The gangway is attached to concrete pillars in the ground and goes out to a small docking system and then a launch,” said Scott. “The launch is a safe and accessible way for adaptive paddlers to get out on the water. Total cost is just slightly over $64,000. Again, this is a Tourism Enhancement Grant.”
The launch was originally slated for a different park.
“We originally were going to place this at Rocket Park, but then, decided to put it at Riverfront Park instead. Made more sense. Water is calmer and folks could paddle up stream or even towards the dam and then come back and take out in the same location,” stated Scott.
Completion is slated for the first part of August.