The playground upgrade at Lynn Valley Elementary School in North Vancouver was made possible in part through the TSBC Community Grant Program. This program promotes the use of BC recycled rubber in community projects that enhance public spaces. The new playground features pour-in-place rubber surfacing made from 1,650 BC recycled car tires. This type of flooring ensures a safe, long-lasting, and accessible play area for students and the broader community.

A Safe and Accessible Space for All

The playground upgrade is part of a larger capital project by the North Vancouver School District (NVSD). This project involves relocating playground equipment to make way for six additional classrooms at Lynn Valley Elementary School. Furthermore, the Lynn Valley Elementary Parent Advisory Council (PAC) saw an opportunity to enhance accessibility. They installed pour-in-place rubber surfacing throughout the playground area. This durable and recycled surface replaces the previous wood chip ground cover, which was challenging for children with mobility issues to navigate.

The upgrade will benefit the school’s 380+ students, including several children who rely on mobility devices. Moreover, the smooth rubber surface allows for easy access, ensuring that all students, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy the playground. Additionally, the new surface will provide safety benefits, reducing the risk of injury from falls due to its cushioning properties.

A Growing Community Benefit

Beyond the school’s daily use, the upgraded playground will also serve the larger Lynn Valley community. The area surrounding the school has experienced rapid growth, with several new high-density residential developments attracting young families. As the closest playground to Lynn Valley Town Centre, local families regularly use the school’s play area during evenings and weekends. Ultimately, the new rubber surfacing makes the space more accessible not only for children with mobility challenges but also for parents with strollers.

“The new rubber surfacing is a game-changer for our school and community,” stated the TSBC Community Grant Program recipient in their application. “It creates a safe, accessible space that will be enjoyed for many years to come. In addition, it contributes to sustainability by using recycled materials from BC’s tire recycling program.”

Related: Sparwood School Unveils Inclusive Playground with Recycled Rubber Surfacing Made From 3,952 BC Tires

Supporting Communities with BC Recycled Tires

With the project now complete, the new playground is ready to welcome students and community members alike. As more families move into the Lynn Valley area, the updated playground will provide an essential space for outdoor play and physical activity in a safe and inclusive environment.

TSBC’s Community Grant Program promotes the use of recycled materials in public spaces. It provides funding for community projects that incorporate BC recycled rubber, produced from tires collected through the province’s tire recycling program. Each year, the program recycles an average of 6 million car tires in BC. The project at Lynn Valley Elementary School exemplifies how these recycled materials can create safer and more inclusive public spaces.