School District 72 is moving ahead with plans to make the playground at Pinecrest Elementary more accessible after securing new grant funding.

The district has received just over $19 thousand from Tire Stewardship BC's Community Grant Program to help install rubber surfacing at the playground.

Matching money from the district's annual facilities grant will also go toward the project, covering a significant portion of the upgrade.

The accessibility improvements were identified by the district's Accessibility Committee as part of ongoing efforts to remove barriers for students and families.

The Pinecrest playground officially opened in January 2024 after more than a decade of fundraising by the school's parent advisory council and support from provincial funding.

While the playground has become a popular gathering place for students and the community, organizers say the original budget only allowed for engineered wood fibre surfacing instead of fully accessible rubber safety surfacing.

“While we are incredibly proud of what we accomplished, our vision was always to create a fully inclusive and accessible play space for all children,” said Jayme Johnson, Pinecrest PAC president.  

“Due to budget limitations, we were only able to install Engineered Wood Fiber surfacing rather than the fully accessible recycled rubber safety surfacing we had hoped for. This has left a gap in accessibility for children with mobility challenges, limiting their ability to safely and independently enjoy the playground.” 

The new rubberized surface, made from recycled materials, will replace sections of the existing wood fibre and provide a smoother, more stable surface for wheelchairs, strollers and other mobility aids.

Pinecrest Principal Jolene Krell says the project is about more than improving the playground itself. She says removing barriers helps create a stronger sense of belonging and ensures all children can play alongside their peers.

Planning for the project is now underway, with installation of the new surfacing expected in the late summer or early fall.

For more information, visit Campbell River School District 72.