Hilton Head launched a free beach wheelchair program. Here’s how you can reserve one.
Beachgoers needing sand-savvy wheelchairs can now use them free of cost at two Hilton Head Island locations.
The island’s new beach wheelchair program has four chairs available, two at Islanders Beach Park in Folly Field and the two at Coligny Beach Park, according to a town news release Friday. The town’s website says more may be added.
The town wanted to make it easier for people with disabilities to use the beach without cost, the news release said.
“We want to make sure our beach is accessible to everyone,” said Aaron Black, facilities manager for the town.
While it’s free to use the wheelchairs, a credit card number will be required to make reservations. The card will not be charged unless there is damage to the chair or it’s not returned.
To reserve a beach wheelchair, head to the town’s website. Green dates are open, gray are reserved and yellow means the day is partially taken. Reservations are in eight-hour blocks between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., and must be made at least two days in advance.
Upon reservation, users will receive a code to unlock the wheelchair at the beach park location and lock it after return.
According to the news release, at the summer’s end, town officials will evaluate the program and determine if improvements are needed and whether to expand it to other beach parks.
