ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK HANDICAP ANGLER ACCESS TO BEACH WILL IMPROVE !
(from Jersey Coast Anglers Association February 1995 Newsletter)
On Monday, March 6, a press conference will be held at Island Beach State Park, Ocean County, New Jersey. The purpose of the conference is to announce the awarding of contracts to build an 800 foot long raised wood walkway from the parking lot at A-7 to the beach. This will allow all surf anglers, and particularly those with some handicap, a much easier way to get to the beach by foot or wheelchair.
The access project started as a project to be funded with monies derived from the Annual Governor's Surf Fishing Tournaments that have been held for the last four years. Some funds have been used to purchase two special wheel chairs with balloon tires to be used on the beach.
The various groups involved in the Tournament decided to work on a much needed access walkway for handicapped fishermen that could be used during the entire fishing season. After plans were drawn up and a site chosen, with great co-operation of the Division of Parks and Forests personel, funds were found in the state treasury to build the entire project without volunteer labor and more donations.
If all goes according to schedule, the new access walkway will be completed and in use by the Memorial Day weekend. The walkway will lead to a section of beach that has been designated for use by fishermen only, to assure the handicapped fisherman a spot to fish during the summer.
The continuing success of the Governor's Tournament, as well as this access project has proven to all of those involved that concerned citizen's groups and dedicated government employees and officials can work together very well.