A new adaptive fishing dock at the Monogram Smith River Sports Complex is making it easier for anglers who use wheelchairs to enjoy casting lines into the Smith River. The dock, designed to provide ADA-compliant access, is situated near a gravel parking lot for easy entry.
The Dan River Basin Association (DRBA) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 5 to celebrate the project’s completion.
The dock was constructed by J. Edward’s Construction and funded through the Eco Ambassador Council. The council includes local businesses such as Blair Construction, Carter Bank, Clark Gas & Oil, Frith Construction, The Lester Group, Hooker Furnishings, Jones & DeShon Orthodontics, and Pickle & Ash.
“They put a pot of funding together, we came up with some to work on together, and this is one they decided they wanted to fund,” said Brian Williams, Virginia program manager for the DRBA.
Initially planned for Bassett, the project was relocated to the Sports Complex due to elevation challenges at the original site. “We don’t have any other official ADA-accessible access places” locally, Williams said.
The new dock, specifically designed to support the weight of electric wheelchairs, has already attracted eager anglers. It also features a lower rail to facilitate fishing while seated and ample space to accommodate multiple users.
A similar structure in North Carolina served as inspiration for the dock’s design. “It has a lower rail up there where you can fish off of it,” Williams explained.
The Sports Complex location was selected for its high visibility and accessibility, ensuring frequent use by the community. “Maybe, one day we will get one up in Bassett,” Williams added, noting hopes for future expansions.
Tyler Carter of Carter Bank & Trust expressed pride in the project. “This is something I think all of us are going to be proud of,” he said.
Roger Adams, director of Henry County Parks & Recreation, echoed the sentiment. “It’s just a great project,” Adams said.
The dock is open during the Sports Complex’s operating hours. Visitors can follow signs to river access, where the dock is located near the start of the dog trail with convenient nearby parking.
