Walton County Beach Operations employees are helping people with disabilities and mobility problems more easily access and enjoy our beautiful white-sand beaches. New wheelchair-friendly access mats made by AccessRec have now been installed at the Ed Walline beach access near Gulf Place.

The product, called AccessMats, provides a firm surface that allows sand to fall through without building up, and they’re UV-protected to withstand constant sunlight.

The mats are 5-feet wide and extend 120 feet feet down to the edge of the Gulf, with two wings branching in either direction along the beach.

“We are pleased to offer beach access to people of all abilities and are dedicated to improving our destination for everyone’s enjoyment,” said Josh Ervin, Walton County TDC Beach Maintenance Manager.

While South Walton already has a limited number of wheelchairs available that are designed for rolling across soft sand, these new access mats will provide beachgoers in regular wheelchairs the ability to get out onto the beach without having to change chairs. Ervin said the project is part of the Tourist Development Council’s mission to help everyone enjoy South Walton’s beautiful beaches.