Situated just 100 yards from the Pacific Ocean and directly off the iconic Newport Beach boardwalk, this public playground presented a unique opportunity to combine playground safety, sustainability, and coastal resilience.

Commissioned by Newport-Mesa Unified School District, the project marked our first installation guided by a recommendation from the California Coastal Commission, a milestone in surfacing playgrounds in environmentally sensitive areas.

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Challenge

The playground’s proximity to the ocean meant that standard rubber crumb surfacing was not a suitable option, as dislodged rubber particles could pose environmental risks to marine ecosystems. The surfacing also needed to meet critical fall height standards, remain slip-resistant, and withstand coastal weather conditions, all while integrating aesthetically with pre-selected equipment and the vibrant beachfront environment.

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Solution

We worked closely with the project architect to develop a custom color layout that complemented the playground equipment and its surrounding landscape.

We installed Play Matta Original, a durable modular interlocking tile system laid over tailored shock pads. This system offers excellent impact absorption, combining the flexibility of rubber with the longevity of UV-resistant, flexible PVC. The tiles are fully recyclable and manufactured using ISO-certified quality assurance procedures.

Importantly, Play Matta’s interlocking design prevents material breakdown, eliminating rubber crumbs that can wash into the ocean, a key consideration for coastal compliance and environmental sustainability.

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Outcome

The completed playground is now fully compliant with U.S. playground safety surfacing standards, offers outstanding fall protection, and is open to the public right off the bustling Newport Beach boardwalk.

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