New floating wheelchair and beach mats make it easier for all to enjoy the water
On a warm, sunny summer day at Nelson’s Rotary Lakeside Park, the cool lake water is irresistible. For those using wheelchairs, however, getting to the water can be a challenge—until now. Thanks to a new accessibility project by the Rotary Club of Nelson, supported by Columbia Basin Trust, a pathway and floating wheelchair ensure everyone can enjoy the beach and lake.
This summer, the Rotary Club of Nelson installed a long blue Mobi-Mat, creating a pathway that allows easy access for wheelchairs and strollers. Additionally, they introduced a Mobi-Chair—a floating wheelchair designed to submerge users safely into the water. These upgrades were made possible with support from the Trust.
The response to these improvements has been overwhelmingly positive. “People have been thrilled,” says Susan Wallach, a Rotary Club member who led the project. She’s heard directly from users, including one who was able to easily reach the lake’s edge in his electric wheelchair and was “quite excited” by the experience.
The Mobi-Chair, with buoyant armrests and wheels, provides stability in the water, while the Mobi-Mat, made from recycled materials, ensures a stable, cool surface to the lake. At the end of the season, the Mobi-Roll ‘N Stow system allows easy storage of the mats.
The idea for these accessibility upgrades came after Wallach read about similar products being used in Goderich, Ontario. Eager to enhance Rotary Lakeside Park, the club reached out to the community and launched a beach party fundraiser at Selkirk College in November 2023, raising over $9,000 with the help of students and local businesses. Additional grants from organizations, including the Trust, helped bring the project to life.
Looking ahead, the Rotary Club is already exploring more ways to improve accessibility at the park. Possible ideas include adding more mats, purchasing a lift to assist with transfers, and installing wheelchair-accessible picnic tables.
With these new additions, Rotary Lakeside Park is more inclusive than ever. Whether you’re in a wheelchair or pushing a stroller, the park is ready for everyone to enjoy.
