SPOTLIGHT ON…Elevator Alley Kayak

A graph with Spotlight On...Elevator Alley and promoting the inclusion work this Buffalo-based business is engaged in with RAA

Elevator Alley Kayak: Where Buffalo’s Waterways Welcome Everyone

In this edition of our Spotlight On… series, Rochester Accessible Adventures (RAA) is proud to highlight Elevator Alley Kayak, a vibrant paddling destination opening up Buffalo’s waterfront to people of all abilities.

Tucked right in the heart of Buffalo’s historic Elevator Alley — just across the street from Mutual Riverfront Park and a stone’s throw from the water — Elevator Alley Kayak is owned by Jason Mendola, whose commitment is clear: everyone deserves a way onto the water.

Through the Accessibility Education Program — provided by Rochester Accessible Adventures through the New York Power Authority and the New York State Canal Corporation — Elevator Alley Kayak is working to ensure that paddling along Buffalo’s waterways is welcoming to all.

Three staff on the grass at Elevator Alley Kayak prepare kayaks with adaptive equipment pieces prior to an excursion.

Elevator Alley Kayak staff prepping the fleet — including new adaptive kayaks — for a day on the water.

Accessibility on the Water

Elevator Alley Kayak joined the Accessibility Education Program, and as an RAA Inclusion Partner, is participating in a mentored process to evaluate their equipment, their launch site, and their operations through the lens of inclusion.

The program supports recreation providers across the canal system and beyond in removing barriers and creating welcoming opportunities for people with disabilities.

At Elevator Alley Kayak, that commitment shows up in both the physical experience of getting on the water and the everyday operations that make the whole visit welcoming.

Built for Access, From the Dock to the Water

Elevator Alley Kayak has invested in access you can see and feel the moment you arrive.

This includes:

  • A brand-new BoardSafe adaptive kayak launch, designed so people can transfer and get onto the water with dignity and confidence
  • New adaptive Creating Ability equipment, including kayaks and accessories that support a wide range of paddlers
  • A welcoming launch site just a short roll or walk from Mutual Riverfront Park

This summer, we had the joy of training Jason’s staff on all the new adaptive equipment and the new launch. And we didn’t do it alone — as part of the training, we collaborated with Greater Buffalo Adaptive Sports and brought in a crew of paddlers to help staff learn how to make equipment adjustments and assist with transfers, so the team is confident and ready to welcome everyone.

Elevator Alley Kayak staff prepare blue kayaks fitted with adaptive elements outside on a sunny day.

Elevator Alley Kayak and RAA staff with a colorful fleet — waiting for YOU

Dee and Elevator Alley Kayak staff assist guests into adaptive kayaks on a BoardSafe Kayak Launch with the grain elevators along a blue river in the background.

Dee and Elevator Alley Kayak staff assist guests and arrange now-empty wheelchairs on the BoardSafe Kayak launch
A paddler situates himself in a red kayak on a Boardsafe Kayak launch at Elevator Alley with a staff person assisting from one side.
A paddler situates himself in his kayak prior to launching

A group of six people pose for a photo after kayaking, including three people standing and three people in wheelchairs

Dee and guests back at street level, all smiles after a paddle.

An Amazing Space in the Heart of Elevator Alley

What a beautiful setting this is. While we were working on the dock, folks took in the wildlife, the towering grain elevators, and a fabulous meandering riverway — now with more enhanced access than ever before.

It’s the kind of place where big water, tall elevators, and great times come together, and where the view is just as memorable as the paddle.

Two people smile up from a red and yellow tandem kayak in the water

Paddling calm water beneath Buffalo’s iconic grain elevators.

A panoramic view shows the variety of vessels lining the waterway along this section of the river.

A panoramic look at the many vessels that often line this stretch of the river.

Inclusion That Goes Beyond the Equipment

Great adaptive gear and a beautiful launch are only part of the story. Through the Accessibility Education Program, Elevator Alley Kayak is working on not only physical enhancements, but also the many other aspects of their operations — from how they communicate to how they welcome each guest — that make the entire experience more inclusive.

We’re proud to be working with Jason and his crew as they open for the season, building a paddling destination where people with disabilities are intentionally, genuinely welcome on Buffalo’s waterways.

The Elevator Alley Kayak rental building stands ready to welcome visitors on a sunny day.

Elevator Alley Kayak’s rental building — ready and waiting for you!

Two people in a blue tandem kayak enjoy calm waters at Elevator Alley Kayak with tall silos behind them

Big water, tall elevators, great times!

Plan Your Visit

Ready to get out on the water in Buffalo?

Visit Elevator Alley Kayak to learn more about paddling, rentals, and the adaptive equipment and launch that make their site welcoming to everyone:
Elevator Alley Kayak

Whether you’re an experienced paddler or getting on the water for the very first time, Elevator Alley Kayak is a place where everyone is welcome to explore Buffalo’s waterways.

And to find more welcoming, accessible recreation across New York State, explore RAA’s DirectConnect Resource Guide.

#MakeInclusionHappen

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