The kindergarten playground at Neil Armstrong Elementary used engineered wood  fiber (EWF) surfacing, which required constant raking, topping off, and  redistribution to stay compliant. Over time, maintaining consistent  accessibility became a challenge—especially for younger students and those  with mobility limitations. The district wanted a surface that would remain  safe, stable, and inclusive without the need for frequent maintenance.

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The  existing loose-fill surface and border were removed, and Play  Matta Original tiles were installed over our foam  shockpads. The new surface provides a free-draining,  ADA-accessible play area with a consistent 7 ft Critical Fall Height—without  the frequent maintenance demands of EWF. The smooth, even surface has  improved accessibility and reduced the time and cost of upkeep for the  district’s maintenance team.