Silver Springs State Park Dedicates First-Ever Wheelchair-Accessible Glass-Bottom Boat
On August 26, Silver Springs State Park celebrated the dedication of the first wheelchair-accessible glass-bottom boat to join the park’s fleet. The Florida State Parks Foundation commissioned Lay, Pitman & Associates Naval Architects to design the 37-foot boat, which includes a flat deck and spacious aisles providing easy and convenient access for wheelchairs. It is also equipped with an induction-loop system that assists passengers using hearing aids to listen to the captain's narration.
“We are committed to making nature and our award-winning state parks accessible to all,” said Foundation President Gil Ziffer. “This new wheelchair-accessible boat allows everyone to enjoy the famous glass-bottom-boat tours at Silver Springs, which have been operating since the 1870s.”
In keeping with the tradition of naming the glass-bottom boats at Silver Springs after Seminole tribal chiefs, the new boat is named Chief Potackee – Betty Mae Tiger Jumper, after the only woman to serve as chief of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
Paula Russo, a former president of the Florida State Parks Foundation, initially advocated for a wheelchair-accessible glass-bottom boat and for the last several years has worked tirelessly to bring it into existence.
“I’m so glad that this day is finally here,” said Russo, who uses a wheelchair. “Silver Springs is a magnificent example of Florida’s natural beauty, and everyone deserves the opportunity to experience all that it offers.”
Rep. Stan McClain, Rep. Allison Tant, Sen. Dennis Baxley and Sen. Keith Perry were among the community leaders to speak at the dedication ceremony. Moses Jumper Jr., the son of the boat’s namesake and Associate Justice, Snake Clan, Seminole Tribe of Florida, was also among the event’s featured speakers.
“Since Silver Springs became a state park, we have been committed to making the park a world-class destination,” said Florida State Parks Director Eric Draper. “Our goal of access for all is realized with this new glass-bottom boat available for people who use wheelchairs.
In addition to the Foundation, a consortium of public and private partners helped fund the boat, including the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, the Felburn Foundation, the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund, the Florida Park Service, Friends of Silver Springs State Park and Cape Leisure.
“Generous donors to the Florida State Parks Foundation are funding important projects and programs and making a difference in many Florida State Parks,” Draper added. “We are so very grateful.”
On August 26, Silver Springs State Park celebrated the dedication of the first wheelchair-accessible glass-bottom boat to join the park’s fleet.
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