The california tahoe conservancy (conservancy) will implement the adaptive paddling access at lake tahoe project (project) to improve nonmotorized boating access for people with disabilities at patton…

The california tahoe conservancy (conservancy) will implement the adaptive paddling access at lake tahoe project (project) to improve nonmotorized boating access for people with disabilities at patton landing beach in north lake tahoe, california. All project improvements will meet americans with disabilities act (ADA) requirements. Project elements include constructing an accessible ramp to the beach and shoreline, creating accessible lakeside picnic areas, repairing paths of travel, and refurbishing facilities and restrooms. Patton landing beach is located on conservancy-owned public land on the shore of lake tahoe. The beach includes a small CAF building, restrooms, patio, picnic areas, parking area, nonmotorized boat launch, a small wetland, and a large beach area. A conservancy-authorized concessionaire named tahoe waterman operates a nonmotorized watercraft rental and CAF business at patton landing beach. A nonprofit organization associated with the concessionaire organizes paddling programs for people with physical and mental disabilities and underserved youth. Patton landing beach, which is open to the public year-round, is used by a wide variety of people seeking active and passive outdoor recreation activities at lake tahoe. The beach is a popular trailhead on the lake tahoe water trail, a 72-mile water route along the shoreline of lake tahoe for nonmotorized paddlers with public launch and landing sites, wayfinding signage, and paddle routes. The beach is also popular for swimming, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. The conservancy acquired patton landing beach in 1987 and constructed the CAF facility, parking area, picnic area, and walkways in the early 2000S. At the time, all improvements met ADA accessibility standards but since then, ADA requirements have changed and some improvements - such as walkways and restrooms - have deteriorated and are in need of renovation. The facility is operated and maintained by the concessionaire and the current concessionaire agreement expires in 2029. The conservancy is seeking $844,578 in implementation funding to match $281,526 in secured state funding for the project. The total project cost is approximately $1,126,104. The conservancy is nearly finished with preliminary plans and is seeking funding to complete working drawings in 2024 and construction in 2025. In addition, $6,800 in private funding has been secured to purchase beach accessibility mats (called mobi-mats) which provide a firm, non-slip surface for all people, including those with disabilities, to travel across the beach and access the lakeshore.