The Waterworks area is the most accessible area of Presque Isle.
It doesn't really have a lot to do with bus service, but I figured since this is a stop used by the Presque Isle Express, I would share some basic information about accessibility. I will follow up with more specific information especially about the accessible beach area and the restrooms, but I wanted to at least get this started. Comments encouraged and appreciated.
The Waterworks area has a network of paved paths that allow you to move around most of the area without leaving a paved surface. Within the area are a multi-purpose trail, a bayside dock, two sets of accessible restrooms and an accessible porta-john, an accessible lakeside beach deck with a wide ramp, floating dock on a pond, smooth path to playground area and accessible picnic areas.
Click photos to enlarge
Map is from Google maps, I did add some things to it specific to this article.
CROSSWALK - If you require a smooth surface at all times, ask the bus driver to leave you off at the crosswalk. Although the area is well-paved, this is the only place where the road connects to the paths. The surrounding area is packed dirt and grass, so if you don't require a flat surface you can still get around, but this is the spot for "smooth landing."
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| Crosswalk on bay side |
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| Crosswalk looking toward lake side |
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| Restrooms in Rotary Pavilion area |
MULTI-PURPOSE TRAIL is an ADA accessible 13+ mile loop around the park, and is used by people using mobility devices as well as hikers, runners, cyclists, skateboards and others. Generally people are respectful of each other; etiquette tip: stay on the right side and leave room on the left for oncoming and people wanting to pass. Although the map calls it a bike trail and there are some cyclists who would like a dedicated trail, this one is called multi-purpose and it is for all manner of moving around.
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| Multi-Purpose Trail used by everyone |
LAKESIDE BEACH DECK AREA - There is a large accessible deck on Beach 7. There is a wide ramp area that leads to the deck. If you travel by private vehicle, there are about six spaces reserved on either side of the entrance to the deck.
In years past there has been a mat leading from the deck to the water's edge, but it was gone this year. I called the park office about the mat, and they said although it was removed from Beach 7, there are mats on Beaches 8 and 11. I don't know how long these are left in place, and would recommend checking ahead ( 814-833-7424 ) if you plan to use them.
PLAYGROUND AREA PATH Playground itself has sandy floor but there is a smooth pank path and bench so one can watch and supervise.
PICNIC AREAS - The cabins #2 and #3 and pavilion are accessible inside but only open to parties who have reserved them. Cabin area path is an unpaved road. Cookhouse shelter (bayside) is often reserved but when it isn't, people who want to eat or take a rest will sit down at the tables. Cookhouse shelter is paved and has wide aisles but sometimes tables block the way from the path. Individual tables are up for grabs but usually on the grass.
WHEELCHAIR RENTALS? unfortunately the bike rental business does not rent mobility devices like beach wheelchairs or even the garden variety mobility devices. I guess they have their reasons, but it seems like an odd omission since they rent all kinds of other wheelie things. Presque Isle Partnership is working on making beach wheelchairs available though... check it out
BUS STOP INBOUND - The inbound bus (heading back into town) is located a little to the east of the paved crosswalk. The berm is pretty solid, but if you need to stay on a solid surface, I guess stay on the outbound crosswalk and wave the driver down? Perhaps this could be addressed by drivers and those who would be affected by an unpaved surface.
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| Surface at inbound bus stop is packed dirt |
Presque Isle Park Office 814-833-7424
