About
WaterFire is for Everyone
Inclusion is a very important part of the WaterFire experience and we strive to make our events as accessible as possible. The WaterFire Access Program provides individuals with mobility issues or disabilities the opportunity to join in the WaterFire experience with their family and friends on a specially designed boat retrofitted to allow for handicap access. This free water-taxi program ensures that these individuals can enjoy the magic of WaterFire, free from the physical restrictions the outdoor location might present.
Sadly, the WaterFire Access Program was suspended in November 2017. In order for us to resume this beloved program, we need a boat! The goal of this KickStarter campaign is to raise $10,000 which will cover the purchase of a pontoon boat which we will retrofit to allow for handicap access. This involves widening doorways and aisles and making adjustments to the railings.
A Part of the Art
Not only will this boat provide a valuable service to the disabled, it will provide more opportunities for the public to experience the world-famous WaterFire art installation. The Access Boat will become part of the artwork that moves along the river at each WaterFire lighting. Costs associated with this include materials, painting, sanding, engine work, safety equipment, boat lines, navigation lighting, registration, insurances and a mix of both paid staff time and volunteer hours.
Thank You for Your Support
Successful funding of this KickStarter will allow us to resume the Access Program with an upgraded vessel to allow for more passengers and in turn more unique experiences for for everyone who visits WaterFire.
Your support today will help ensure the Access program will continue to provide free rides for individuals of all ages with mobility issues for many years to come.
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Risks and challenges
It is possible that the timeline for the completion of this project could change. Since WaterFire Providence has a small staff and a lot work goes into preparing for the season, we may have other projects that require our attention before or during the acquisition of another boat.
We intend to complete this campaign and have the Access boat available for the start of the 2018 WaterFire season.
It is possible that the Access Program boat may not be fully prepared for the first event of the season. Full funding of this KickStarter will give us the best possible chance of having the program fully operational this spring.
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