A new launch and landing site for kayakers made its debut in Buffalo Friday afternoon. The outer harbor’s Wilkeson Pointe is now home to a safe and easy access point for waterborne visitors.Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation Chairman Robert Gioia said it’s yet another way to enjoy the different facets of Buffalo’s waterfront.
“You can kayak across and then access the outer harbor and enjoy the entire outer harbor as well,” said Gioia. “It’s a totally different experience. Inner harbor is a lot of people, a lot of activity, a lot of events. Outer harbor is more about bike trails and nature and being right along the water.”
Gioia said the divide between the two harbors has long been a noticeable challenge for the community, raising questions about access.
Like Canalside’s recently debuted Bike Ferry, the kayak launch connects people to the Outer Harbor’s walking and biking trails. But Wilkeson Point isn’t the only place around to get in a kayak. Canalside’s BFLO Harbor Kayak offers the boats for rent, along with waterfront tours. Gioia doesn’t see the Wilkeson landing as a challenge to the Canalside business, but as more of a complement to it.
“So you can rent a kayak at BFLO River Kayak, kayak around to Wilkeson Point, access it, disembark, and spend time on the outer harbor,” said Gioia.
Putting a former ferry dock to use again, the site features what is known as an EZ-Launch system, which makes it accessible for people of all ages and skill sets.
For those seeking the art-filled appeal of the Waterfront Park, Gioia said it is a positive addition.
“It embraces it and enhances it, so people can really access it from not only the land side, but also from the water side. People have all wanted to have connectivity from the water side, and water activity, so it really is an opportunity to do both.”
Gioia says the launch adds to the appeal of the waterfront for families and any other groups of people. It’s yet another facet he hopes will bring people to the Outer Harbor now, and encourage them to visit throughout the year.
