Title
Ordinance in the Amount of $37,965 Amending State, Federal, and Other Grants Fund Budget for the Appropriation of Duke Energy Water Resources Fund Grant for Accessible Boat Launch at Lake Higgins Marina
Body
Department: Parks and Recreation
Council District: 3
Public Hearing: N/A
Advertising Date/By: N/A
Contact 1 and Phone: Phil Fleischmann, 373-3275
Contact 2 and Phone: Wade Walcutt, 373-2964
PURPOSE:
The Greensboro Parks and Recreation Department has received a grant from the Duke Energy Water Resources Fund in the amount of $37,965 to provide an accessible boat launch at the Lake Higgins marina. To accept this grant, a budget amendment is requested from Greensboro City Council in accordance with current city fiscal procedures.
BACKGROUND:
Acceptance of this grant allows the Parks and Recreation Department to purchase and install an EZ Launch access ramp for Lake Higgins. The installation of this equipment will allow for universal access by kayak and canoe users of all abilities. Previously, universal access for kayak and canoe users has not been available at the City lakes.
The Parks and Recreation Department is committed to providing adaptive and inclusive recreation opportunities and improved access to facilities. The EZ Launch Accessible Transfer System for kayaks and canoes provides individuals with disabilities accessibility that exceeds the minimum requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The easy-to-use transfer bench and transfer slide boards allow users to simply sit, slide over and drop down into a kayak or canoe then use the side rails to pull off or back on. Product features include guide rails for easy access in and out of the water, launch rollers for easy movement of the watercraft, and a floating platform which adjusts to changing water levels.
The Duke Energy Water Resources Fund is administered by the North Carolina Community Foundation on behalf of the Duke Energy Foundation. The Duke Energy Foundation is investing $10 million to fund programs benefitting waterways in the Carolinas or immediately downstream of its operational facilities in Virginia, Tennessee, and Georgia. The fund supports science-based, research-supported protects and programs that provide direct benefits in water quality, fish and wildlife habitats, public use and access to waterways, and public awareness about individuals’ roles in protecting water resources. The Lake Higgins EZ Launch is one of the projects that was selected to receive funds from this program.
BUDGET IMPACT:
No match is required from the City to secure this grant. In order to provide a more inclusive experience at Lake Higgins for those with physical disabilities, the Parks and Recreation Department will contribute approx. $7,000 in funding and in-kind labor support to provide additional improvements at the park including a paved sidewalk, an accessible temporary restroom, and adaptive equipment. These funds are available in the Parks and Recreation Department’s general operating budget (e.g., 101-5018-04; 101-5022-50). Additional private contributions valued at approx. $1,000 have been received from the Greensboro Elks Lodge #602 to provide additional adaptive equipment.
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED:
It is recommended that the City Council accept the Duke Energy Water Resources Fund grant and adopt the attached budget ordinance to establish funding in the amount of $37,965 for the purchase and installation of the accessible boat launch at Lake Higgins marina.