(PLATTSBURGH-June 29th 2023) - The Sunrise Rotary Club of Plattsburgh is proud to announce the gift of beach wheelchairs and accessibility mats to Plattsburgh City Beach. These new additions will make it easier for people with disabilities, mobility issues, seniors, and veterans to enjoy the beach and the surrounding area.
The beach wheelchairs are designed to be used on sand and in water. One, the Debug Wheelchair, is equipped with large wheels that can roll over packed sand and other obstacles. The chair has a steel frame and has a weight capacity of 350 pounds. The other chair, the Hippocampe, is lower to the ground, can be self-propelled in packed sand, and can float in the water for more active individuals.
The beach wheelchairs are available for public use free of charge during open beach hours (Monday-Sunday 10AM-6PM). They can be taken out from the Lifeguard Station.
In addition to the beach wheelchairs, Sunrise Rotary donated beach mats that provide a smooth surface over the sand for people with mobility issues. The mat is a 100% recycled polyester roll and an industry leader in beach accessibility mats.
While initially intended to be completed last year, logistics and quality testing dictated that we finish the project for the 2023 beach season.
“The Plattsburgh City Beach is a place where the community and visitors can enjoy summer recreation, and expanding access promotes greater use of our amazing beach,” said Colleen Downs, project manager with Sunrise Rotary.
Plattsburgh Mayor Christopher Rosenquest says, "Our partnership with Rotary is one that continues to deepen and advance the betterment of our community. Inclusion and increasing access for all abilities is critical to a healthy and vibrant community. We will look forward to continuing this momentum”.
The City of Plattsburgh and Sunrise Rotary Club will be holding a press conference on Friday July 7th at 10:00AM at the Plattsburgh City Beach to acknowledge Sunrise Rotary’s gift of the wheelchairs and beach mats to the city.
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