Former Area of Tragedy Turned into “Green” Recreational Area with TigerTurf EnviroField
10/16/2008
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Newark, N.J.’s Mount Vernon Elementary School has something in common with a growing number of facilities in the southwest: TigerTurf EnviroField.
Selected because it is an ecofriendly, heat resistant, non-rubber product, the turf is part of an effort that has transformed the neglected Mount Vernon school yard – site of four shootings in 2007 -- into an inviting community facility.
“We were asked to turn this area of tragedy into a viable, positive place for the citizens of Newark,” said Colleen Graves, Program Manager for The Trust for Public Land (TPL). “In doing so, our goal was to choose green products like TigerTurf – an alternative infill product that does not pose environmental issues.”
Graves said Sports Construction Group (SCG), which installed the turf, and TigerTurf have both impressed her. “We are absolutely pleased with the quality and durability of the system – the silicone sand seems great. SCG was fantastic to work with during the installation.”
“The heat resistance of the system, which has made it popular in Texas and Oklahoma, will be an asset in warmer temperatures,” said TigerTurf Director, Charles Fleishman. “The system is also resistant to extreme cold.”
He added, “While this is the first adoption of TigerTurf EnviroField in the Northeast, we anticipate more interest in products like this because of their green attributes – recyclability, heavy metal compliancy, etc. – along with weather resistance, durability and performance.”
Graves said the Mount Vernon project was a collaborative effort between TPL, Mount Vernon Public School and the community. Largely designed by students, the facility features (in addition to TigerTurf) play equipment, basketball and tennis courts, a running track, garden and more. It was funded in part through various donations and in-kind contributions, including discounts from SCG and TigerTurf.
“Both companies took the project to heart and wanted to be part of it. We appreciate their generosity and enthusiasm,” noted Graves. She said that TPL was asked to create an inviting community recreational facility following the murder of three college students and the near fatal shooting of a fourth on the site last year.
“It is an honor for us to be part of this project,” said Paul Franks, SCG President and CEO. “We applaud the Mt. Vernon community for seeking to transform the neglected area into something positive after such a tragic event.”
Fleishman agreed: “We are excited to see our technology employed to create a vibrant space for gathering and recreation.”
The Mount Vernon School Playground, which was dedicated October 8, will serve more than 8,000 Newark residents. The project marks TPL’s eighth new park and playground in Newark.
The Trust for Public Land
The Trust for Public Land is a national nonprofit land conservation organization that conserves land for people to enjoy as parks, gardens, and natural areas, ensuring livable communities for generations to come. Since 1972, TPL has helped protect more than 2.5 million acres of land in 46 states, including more than 23,000 acres in New Jersey.
