A new, accessible dock is now open along the Thames River in St. Marys.
According to the Town of St. Marys, the dock has features designed for easy and safe access for paddlers, including a stable and secure platform, a kayak launch assist mechanism, handrails, grab bars and transfer benches for paddlers to move safely from a wheelchair or the dock to their kayak.
“The dock is a wonderful addition to our community that will significantly improve access to the Thames,” says St. Marys Mayor Al Strathdee. “We are grateful for the support from Community Living, the Government of Canada and the Upper Thames Conservation Authority.”
The Town realized an accessible dock was needed after residents and visitors noted as much in a revitalization survey for Milt Dunnell Park.
River usage jumped after 2020, and the launch of the free kayak program in St. Marys.
The lack of an accessible dock was a barrier for people with mobility issues.
Cost is being covered by a donation from Community Living St. Marys and Area and funding from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.
Other improvements to Milt Dunnell Field include paving the parking lot, adding new accessible washrooms, and revitalizing the lawn bowling building and playing field.
For more information go to discoverstmarys.ca.
