New Floating Launch at Seneca Landing Park
A new floating launch for non-motorized boats has greatly improved accessibility and safety for kayakers, canoeists and paddle boarders at Seneca Landing Park in Poolesville. The area commonly known as Riley's Lock.
Montgomery Parks, part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, recently completed construction of the floating launch—a project that was strongly supported by the County’s Commission for People with Disabilities and the County Commission on Veterans Affairs.
The site is one of the busiest access points to the Potomac River and also adjoins the National Park Service’s extensively utilized C&O Canal. Prior to completion of the new floating launch, motorized and non-motorized boats were sharing the same ramp, causing conflict and safety issues. The original ramp also is not ADA accessible, presenting numerous challenges for users with disabilities.
As part of the project, Montgomery Parks also installed an accessible drop-off area and walkway, three accessible parking spaces and a fully accessible picnic area with tables and grills.
The need for an accessible boat launch was initiated by Team River Runner, a nonprofit organization that provides adventure and adaptive paddle sports to veterans and their families. It approached the County Commission on Veterans Affairs about the need for an accessible launch and was assisted by the Commission on the project.
On Sundays from May to November, Team River Runner hosts a kayak program at Seneca Landing with patients from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, as well as veterans from the community.
A second phase of the project, which will include accessibility upgrades to improve safety, expand capacity and enhance accessibility of the existing boat ramp for motorized boats, is scheduled to begin this winter.
More Information
This is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement.
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