Boat rentals will continue at Millvale's Riverfront Park, but through a new operator. Venture Outdoors, a Pittsburgh area non-profit that makes "it easy for you to get outside," is taking over boat rentals there starting Memorial Day weekend.
Jon Lucadamo, Project Director for Venture Outdoors, says the individual who previously offered powered and non-powered boats for rent is no longer involved. The Borough of Millvale stepped in and offered the concession opportunity to Venture Outdoors, parent company to Kayak Pittsburgh, which currently operates in North Park and on the North Shore.
"Kayak Millvale is going to be our newest addition to our list of projects, and it will be most similar to the other Kayak Pittsburgh [concessions], but most similar to North Park's in the sense of size," Lucadamo said.
For opening weekend, Kayak Millvale plans to have a combination of 20 solo and double kayaks, or tandems. Non-experienced boaters are welcome to rent and try the outdoor activity.
"Everything we do is beginner level and family friendly, so we try to create an atmosphere that is inviting and non-intimidating, Lucadamo says. "[We don't] put people on the water when the water is not at beginner level stages."
In partnership with Golden Triangle Bike Rentals, Venture Outdoors will also be providing bicycles for rent. Kayak Millvale is due to open Saturday, May 26th and operate through Labor Day weekend.