Satisfied Customers

In 2008, Eric Peterson and John Sund from American Incline Elevator contracted with my engineering firm, Nordlund and Associates, to provide a foundation design for an inclined elevator that they were installing on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan.

In order to evaluate the soils and foundations, I needed to install several hand auger borings 12’ deep over the route of the inclined elevator.  This required me to lower about 100 lbs of augers and test equipment with a rope down the bluff to the boring locations. I found the 150’ tall bluff to be extremely rugged and steep.

Once the borings and testing were complete, I found myself at the base of a 150’ bluff with all that equipment to be hauled back to the top of the bluff.  Without a doubt this was one of the most physically challenging jobs that I have ever completed.  By the time I had crawled up to the top of the buff with my equipment I was exhausted.  Of course, the poison ivy, thorns and insects had wreaked havoc on any exposed skin.

Earlier this spring Eric Peterson invited me to take a ride in the completed inclined elevator.  I brought my 16 year old daughter, Kate, (who has a leg in a cast) along with me.  The ride was completely smooth and trouble free.  Kate was able to operate the elevator with no difficulties.  Docking at each platform was automatic and smooth.  We were able to stop the car anywhere along the route to admire the view.    Eric showed me some of the safety features, which consisted of an over speed governor and independent safety cable, which is designed to maintain complete control of the car at all times.

It was great to be able to compare my two experiences on this bluff.  The first required all my strength and physically wiped me out for a couple of days while the second was in total comfort.  I can see how this type of inclined elevator can open up a new dimension to owners of high bluff properties.  Now anyone can enjoy the waterfront and beach regardless of physical condition.

Jim Nordlund Jr.
Nordlund and Associates, Inc.
813 East Ludington Avenue
Ludington, Michigan  49431
231 843-3485

Our new Incline lift has made access to Lake Michigan easily possible from our 230' bluff. American Incline Elevator has been very efficient, friendly, helpful in every way, and carefully oversees the maintenance. It is and has been a pleasure to work with John Sund and Eric Peterson.

W&E Verderber

Everybody dreams of purchasing some appliance, accesssory, or vehicle that really works the way it is suppose to. You will find one in the American Incline Elevator. This lift for beach side bluffs meets and surpasses all expectations as a means of roomy, smooth, and safe transit to and from the shore. Beyond that, however, this company provides something that most people thought died in the last century - prompt and efficient service from knowledgeable experts who make it their business to know their product, and to know and care for their customers. We have found the highest quality in the elevator itself and in the attention and follow-up service provided by this company. We recommend the lift and the company without reservation.

Dr. Eugene Kennedy & Dr. Sara Charles Kennedy