Playground Resurfacing Improves Accessible Play at Pinecrest Elementary

More children can now access and enjoy the playground at Pinecrest Elementary following the completion of a new accessible rubberized surface.

School District 72 replaced a significant portion of the playground’s wood chip surface with rubberized surfacing designed to improve safety, accessibility and inclusion. The new surface provides better access for children using wheelchairs, walkers and other mobility aids, helping more children play alongside their peers.

The resurfacing project was supported by a $19,328.21 grant from Tire Stewardship BC’s 2026 Community Grant Program, which supports community projects that use recycled tire materials produced in British Columbia. The school district matched the grant through its Annual Facilities Grant.

“This project is a good example of how partnerships can help us make our schools and grounds more accessible,” said Kevin Patrick, secretary-treasurer for School District 72. “By combining the Tire Stewardship BC grant with district funding, we were able to make an important improvement that gives more children the opportunity to enjoy the playground.”

The resurfacing builds on a $198,000 provincial investment in new playground equipment at Pinecrest Elementary in 2024. Together with the district and Tire Stewardship BC investments, the improvements have helped create a more inclusive play space for students and families.

The benefits also extend beyond the school day. Pinecrest’s playground is used by children and families during evenings, weekends and school breaks, making it an important recreational space for the wider Campbell River community.

School District 72 continues to work toward improving accessibility across its schools and programs, so students and families have more equitable access to learning, recreation and participation.

The district thanks Tire Stewardship BC for its support of the project and its investment in initiatives that improve accessibility while finding new uses for recycled materials.