The James River Outdoor Coalition is embarking on one of the most ambitious endeavors in its twenty year history, a universal access ramp at the Huguenot Flatwater section of the James River Park System. The ramp will allow people of all ability levels access to both flatwater and downstream whitewater sections of the James River.
The James River falls 110 feet over 7 miles as it flows through the James River Park System (JRPS) in Richmond, VA. Year-round people in kayaks and canoes, on stand-up paddleboards and in other craft enjoy the exhilaration of whitewater, quiet slap of a paddle in flatwater, plop of a fishing line breaking the river’s surface and the peace and tranquility of water gurgling around rocks or waves slapping the bank.
But paddlers with disabilities have only minimal access as there is only one ADA compliant river access in the middle at Reedy Creek, primarily for whitewater access. The new universal access ramp at Huguenot Flatwater will change that by connecting the upper 4 miles of James River with ADA compliant access at both ends. Paddlers of all abilities will have access to a calmer section of the James and be able to paddle downriver to Reedy Creek with its accessible takeout. The ramp will also accomplish step two of three of JROC’s long term goal of connecting all 7 miles of the James that runs through the JRPS with ADA compliant access.
Help us reach our goal for access for all! Donate online at jroc.net
