Tybee Island makes beach more accessible with wheelchair option

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - A beach wheelchair program on Tybee Island has allowed people with disabilities to enjoy the island’s beach for years, but recently, it’s become even more accessible to the public.

This heatwave is the perfect opportunity to soak up the sun and head down to the beach and thanks to Tybee Island’s Beach Wheelchairs, everyone can enjoy.

“The city’s had a beach wheelchair program for quite a few years, but it was really kind of an afterthought type program run by the fire department,” said Tybee Island City Marshal Walter Hattrich

Folks used to have to drive to the fire station, which is located in the middle of the island.

“Which made it very inconvenient to get the wheelchairs out to the beach,” said Hattrich.

Noticing there needed to be a change, the former city manager and fire chief brought the program to the city marshall, who’s located right by the pier on the south end, a popular spot for tourists and beach goers.

“We can deliver them. You can pick them up from our office at 1509 Strand Avenue,” said Hattrich.

At first, the city marshal wasn’t sure what to do with the program, but after speaking with the Savannah AMBUCS, who helps those with special needs, they were able to make these chairs free and accessible for residents and visitors.

“The chairs are expensive. They’re almost $3,000 a piece,” said Hattrich.

The Savannah AMBUCS raised and donated over 16-thousand dollars--adding eight new chairs.

These chairs easily move on sand, and can even go in the water if users want to get their feet wet.

It’s all to make sure no one is left out of making fun memories on the beach.

“We’re happy to have families coming to our island that want to make those memories that they wouldn’t normally be able to make,” said Hattrich.

If you’d like to rent one of these chairs, visit Tybee Island Code Enforcement at 1509 Strand Avenue, or give them a call.