Ryan announces $1 million for accessibility upgrades at Beaver Island State Park

Funding will create dog park, ADA beach access point, accessible playground

Submitted by the Office of New York State Sen. Sean Ryan

On Thursday, New York State Sen. Sean Ryan announced he secured a $1,000,000 state grant for Beaver Island State Park on Grand Island. This funding will allow for the creation of three major projects: a new dog park; ADA beach access; and an additional, accessible playground.

•$265,000 of the grant is dedicated to the creation of a new, 4-acre dog park in a currently unused open lawn space north of the main parking lot within the park. There will also be other amenities for dog owners, including a dog wash station, leash posts, and a waste station.

•$170,000 of the grant will be used for the construction of a new, 60-foot-long, ADA-compliant boardwalk ramp. This ramp, which will connect the main Falconwood building to the water, will allow visitors with disabilities access to the waterfront. A portion of this funding will also upgrade the existing bathroom doors with ADA push buttons.

•$500,000 of the grant funds will be used for the creation of a new playground with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity.

These projects will be undertaken, designed and executed by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. 2024 is the 100th anniversary of New York state’s park system. State Parks has a long history of success in executing and maintaining similar projects.

Ryan said, “With new funding, Beaver Island State Park can now offer an even greater variety of options to visitors. These upcoming projects have a strong focus on accessibility for all, which will allow everyone to enjoy what the park has to offer, regardless of ability.”

State Parks Niagara Region Director Mark V. Mistretta said, “We are grateful to Sen. Ryan for his commitment to our local New York state parks and especially here at Beaver Island. This park is very popular, and so focusing on enhancing the experience here is key for us at Parks, and we are thankful for this investment.”