Council makes marina docks accessible for all
The Nackawic Waterfront just became more accessible with the recent installation of a Power EZ2 lift on the marina docks.
The sling-style lift will help people with limited mobility get into a boat more easily from a dock.
Paul Sherman is Nackawic-Millville’s Director of Recreation and Parks. He said that to their knowledge, this lift is the first one to be installed at a marina in New Brunswick.
He said the municipality is always looking for ways to improve the marina and waterfront, and that the idea for a lift came up in their discussions.
“The marina is getting busier and busier every season with boaters and fishing tournaments. We thought this service would be beneficial by making us more accessible, as well as a selling point for people to visit our marina,” said Sherman.
He said because it is a large, expensive device, they can’t just leave it out all the time.
“Once we advertise that we have it, we will take appointments during business hours. This will be communicated and advertised, and everyone will be trained on it.”
The lift was purchased from a Canadian company based in Quebec, Maison Andre Viger Inc. They build these kinds of aids for pools and docks.
Nackawic-Millville Mayor Tim Fox said the idea was given to him by a fishing guide, Steve Cliff, who saw the need for his disabled clients. Fox said he needs to give Steve credit for this important and exciting addition to our marina and community.
“This improvement to our marina will ensure that people with mobility challenges can have that experience, whether it is someone who can experience fishing on a bass boat, or someone who has never had the experience of paddling in a kayak,” said Fox.
Fox said he wants everyone to have the opportunity to take part in all the community has to offer and enjoy spending time on the water.
