Alexandria’s first fully-accessible public kayak launch is now under construction at Four Mile Run Park.
The Four Mile Run Conservatory Foundation, which is spearheading this project, broke ground on Thursday, March 6. This Four Mile Run Kayak Launch will give paddlers access to Four Mile Run and the Potomac River Water Trail.
The foundation’s president Kurt Moser explains that this launch will provide “proper access to Four Mile Run and the Potomac River Water Trail at a spot where there is beautiful nature and minimal disruption by boat traffic.”
The project features an 187-foot ADA-compliant boardwalk, a 30-foot gangway, and a 20-by-42-foot floating launch platform. The platform includes a roller-entry system and a wheelchair transfer area.
“It will fulfill a goal of the Four Mile Run Restoration Master Plan and offer paddling access in a part of Northern Virginia that the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation classifies as high-need for recreational water access”, according to the Four Mile Run Conservatory Foundation.
Antonio Landivar, the project’s general contractor, says, “We are excited to begin this project. Landivar & Associates is an Alexandria-based business, and we value the opportunity to contribute to the betterment of our city. As a city resident and paddler, I also look forward to enjoying the new launch”.
The project has received funding from several sources, including:
– The Community Matching Fund of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Activities
– The Virginia Recreational Trails Program
– The National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways grant program
– The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Moser adds, “It’s been years in the works, as we’ve put the design and funding pieces into place for a project that’s in a challenging setting, within the Four Mile Run flood control channel and subject to tides and high water during rain events. We’ve had great community support through public comments and individual donations, and we’re thrilled to get the construction underway.”
The project is expected to be completed by mid-summer.
