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Handicapped-accessible boating on Westport River sought

Herald News - 6/18/2018

WESTPORT - A few hours on a rowboat can greatly ease the anguish of a combat veteran - especially one who has mobility issues or post traumatic stress disorder.

Disabilities Commissioner Stanley Cornwall made that case on Monday to selectmen. Then he and two commissioners earned approval to begin working on plans for a handicapped-accessible ramp at the Hix Bridge landing.

Cornwall is involved with the national Heroes on the Water, an organization dedicated to offering no-cost kayak fishing trips to veterans and active military members. Cornwall recently was approached by Beach Committee member William Underwood, who has a friend who has complained about lack of handicapped-accessible canoe and kayak areas.

The two joined forces and with Disabilities Commission Chairman Brian Gallagher they have been mulling over plans to create one at the Hix Bridge Landing.

"We have been investigating ways to improve access. There is a lot of water in town but there are not a lot of ways to help people with disabilities get down to the water," Gallagher said.

Cornwall mentioned that the east and west branches of the Westport River are great fishing spots, so a handicapped-accessible launching ramp would be perfect for the Heroes group.

Underwood and Cornwall told selectmen that the plans are preliminary, and the meeting on Monday represented one of the initial steps. They mentioned that the landing area is town-owned and would not need as much state intervention. They also said that efforts would lead to overall parking and other improvements at that popular scenic site.

Underwood said he envisions a concrete paved path, with openings in pavers for drainage to prevent run off into the river. The new area would accommodate three cars along the southwest corner of the parking area.

Underwood also said it will take much work and fundraising to make the launching pad a reality. Underwood also said different groups must coordinate plans for the effort to work. Underwood mentioned that the private Dharma Voyage would be asked to send two able rowers at the site when someone with mobility issues is present. He added that the organization has many capable rowers, and around 100 who are involved.

Cornwall said many people have approached him to join a committee for this effort.

"If we really accomplished something like this we could really set an example," Cornwall said.

Selectmen Vice Chairman Steven Ouellette advised the disabilities commissioners to review plans with the town's Division of Marine Services.

Otherwise, selectmen endorsed the plans moving forward.

"I think it is a great idea. I hope you can get it going in the not-so-distant future," Selectmen Chairwoman Shana Shufelt said. "It seems like a no-brainer."

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