Started in 1992, the LBTBP Beachwheels program is one of the largest beach wheelchair programs in the country. The Beachwheels are made from lightweight PVC tubing and oversized wheels so that they can handle difficult terrain such as the beach. The Beachwheels program is funded by donations from Long Beach Island businesses and service organizations and by contributions from individual residents of Long Beach Township and Long Beach Island.
Anyone staying at a Township of Long Beach address is eligible to reserve and use a Beachwheels at no charge. However, we cannot lend chairs to people staying at hotels unless special security arrangements have been made in advance. Additionally, chairs may only be used within Long Beach Township.
Reserving a Surf Chair
It is necessary to make reservations in advance (as early as January) because there are a limited number of Beachwheels. They can be reserved for up to one week (Saturday to Saturday). To reserve a Beachwheel, call the Long Beach Township Beach Patrol at (609) 361-1200. Please provide your full name, home address, local address, and phone numbers for both addresses, along with the dates (Saturday to Saturday) you wish to reserve.
In addition, you will need to provide an I.D. texted/e-mailed to Tracey Schmidt at tracey@lbtbp.com or faxed to (609) 361-1210 (i.e.: Driver’s License, Passport, or Military I.D. etc.) at time of reservation. You do not have to pick up the chair; we will deliver it to your residence. All drop offs and all pick-ups will be made on Saturday. You should also include any special instructions for the delivery.
Care and Operation
An attendant is needed to move the chair; it cannot be moved by the person using it. The chairs are equipped with retractable or removable footrests, safety restraints, removable umbrellas and brakes. The umbrella is attached to the right side of the chair’s backrest. To secure the umbrella, tighten the pressure coupling on the umbrella shaft.
- Use care when operating the chair to avoid accidents.
- Hose off the chair on a daily basis to remove sand and salt.
- Do not leave the chair unattended
- Store the chair in a secure place when not in use.
If there are any problems with the chair—or if you have any questions or comments—please call the Beach Patrol office at (609) 361-1200.
