PETITION AGAINST TOWN PLAN FOR KAYAK LAUNCH AND DANGEROUS STREET CROSSING
The Issue
East River Road, south of Ransom, is a serene and picturesque part of Grand Island, cherished by residents and visitors alike. However, a new proposal threatens both the tranquility and safety of this area. The neighborhood residents are deeply concerned about the town's plan to introduce a kayak launch at this location, forcing people to cross E. River Rd while carrying kayaks, then paddle around long docks and out into deep water, into a stretch of river that has heavy boat traffic.
This section of East River Road is notorious for its blind curves and narrow shoulders, which already present a significant hazard to pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike. Any addition that amplifies these dangers should be reconsidered urgently.
Articles from Niagara Frontier publications highlight these dangers: The Greenway Trail Commission has already raised alarms about the risks on East River Road, noting past incidents where cyclists and walkers have been seriously injured. Former Deputy Supervisor Jim Sharpe said that people fear for their lives when riding along E. River and former Supervisor John Whitney has said that E. River poses some real challenges because of its terrain and topography. Current Supervisor Pete Marston has said that all stakeholders need to be involved in a plan to improve E. River.
The logical and responsible course of action is for local authorities to pause, reconsider this proposal, and identify alternative, safer locations for a kayak launch. One option would be the 14+ acres of waterfront the town owns next to Spicer Creek; people would not have to cross the street or go out into deep water. This large waterfront location is also much more adaptable for public uses, such as nautical rescue access. It is the perfect location.
All of the 10 nearest homeowners are against the proposal, we responded to the town as a group, yet they did not want to meet with us. We are open to other options and uses of this property, like the pedestrian trail entrance that is currently approved. GI has 8 public kayak launch areas already.
Join us in urging our local council and decision-makers to protect our community by reassessing this faulty proposal. Together, we can push for safer, more thoughtful development that prioritizes the well-being of everyone in Grand Island. It is free to sign.
Additional Photos, correspondence with the town, and more Information please visit - https://safestreetsbeforekayaks.com/
The proposed site has less than 1/10 of an acre waterfront property, between two residential homes, requiring people to cross a dangerous road carrying kayaks, paddle around long docks and out into deep water, into a stretch of river that has heavy boat traffic.
Additional Photos, correspondence with the town, and more Information please visit - https://safestreetsbeforekayaks.com/
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The Issue
East River Road, south of Ransom, is a serene and picturesque part of Grand Island, cherished by residents and visitors alike. However, a new proposal threatens both the tranquility and safety of this area. The neighborhood residents are deeply concerned about the town's plan to introduce a kayak launch at this location, forcing people to cross E. River Rd while carrying kayaks, then paddle around long docks and out into deep water, into a stretch of river that has heavy boat traffic.
This section of East River Road is notorious for its blind curves and narrow shoulders, which already present a significant hazard to pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike. Any addition that amplifies these dangers should be reconsidered urgently.
Articles from Niagara Frontier publications highlight these dangers: The Greenway Trail Commission has already raised alarms about the risks on East River Road, noting past incidents where cyclists and walkers have been seriously injured. Former Deputy Supervisor Jim Sharpe said that people fear for their lives when riding along E. River and former Supervisor John Whitney has said that E. River poses some real challenges because of its terrain and topography. Current Supervisor Pete Marston has said that all stakeholders need to be involved in a plan to improve E. River.
The logical and responsible course of action is for local authorities to pause, reconsider this proposal, and identify alternative, safer locations for a kayak launch. One option would be the 14+ acres of waterfront the town owns next to Spicer Creek; people would not have to cross the street or go out into deep water. This large waterfront location is also much more adaptable for public uses, such as nautical rescue access. It is the perfect location.
All of the 10 nearest homeowners are against the proposal, we responded to the town as a group, yet they did not want to meet with us. We are open to other options and uses of this property, like the pedestrian trail entrance that is currently approved. GI has 8 public kayak launch areas already.
Join us in urging our local council and decision-makers to protect our community by reassessing this faulty proposal. Together, we can push for safer, more thoughtful development that prioritizes the well-being of everyone in Grand Island. It is free to sign.
Additional Photos, correspondence with the town, and more Information please visit - https://safestreetsbeforekayaks.com/
The proposed site has less than 1/10 of an acre waterfront property, between two residential homes, requiring people to cross a dangerous road carrying kayaks, paddle around long docks and out into deep water, into a stretch of river that has heavy boat traffic.
Additional Photos, correspondence with the town, and more Information please visit - https://safestreetsbeforekayaks.com/
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Petition created on October 5, 2026