Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District Partners with the Industry’s leading Authority for Playground Surfacing Systems FallZone Safety Surfacing to provide FallZone Poured-in-Place Playground Surfacing for Heritage Park-Lions Den Playground in Lima, Ohio
Nestled in the heart of Allen County, Ohio, the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District (JAMPD) has long been a beacon of community engagement, environmental stewardship, and family-friendly outdoor recreation. With 17 unique park locations, including the beloved Heritage Park, JAMPD is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for Allen County residents through accessible, safe, and vibrant natural spaces. Among its crown jewels is the Lions Den at Heritage Park, a playground that has become a cherished destination for families seeking fun, adventure, and connection with nature. To elevate this iconic play area to new heights, JAMPD recently partnered with FallZone Safety Surfacing, the nationwide industry leader in playground surfacing, to install the innovative FallZone Poured-in-Place playground surfacing system. This decision marks a significant step forward in ensuring safety, durability, and aesthetic appeal for the Lions Den, setting a new standard for playgrounds across the region. In this blog post, we’ll explore why JAMPD chose FallZone’s premier FallZone Poured-in-Place playground surfacing, the transformative benefits of this cutting-edge system, and how it enhances the play experience for children and families at Heritage Park’s Lions Den.
A Legacy of Community and Nature: The Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District
Before diving into the specifics of FallZone’s Poured-in-Place playground surfacing, it’s worth celebrating the legacy of the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District. Established to conserve natural resources while providing passive outdoor recreation and educational opportunities, JAMPD manages a comprehensive system of 16 parks across Allen County, Ohio. Heritage Park, spanning 81 acres, holds a special place in this network, with a rich history tied to the last Shawnee Indian reservation in Ohio and its transformation from federal land into a community treasure through President Nixon’s “Legacy of Parks” program in the 1970s. The park’s Lions Den playground, known for its unique play structures, scenic nature trails, and family-friendly picnic areas, is a hub of activity where children’s laughter echoes and memories are made.
JAMPD’s mission is clear: to create spaces that foster joy, health, and connection while preserving the natural beauty of Allen County for future generations. The Lions Den at Heritage Park embodies this vision, offering a safe and engaging environment for children to explore, imagine, and grow. However, to maintain its status as a premier destination, JAMPD recognized the need for a playground surfacing solution that could match the park’s commitment to safety, accessibility, and durability. Enter FallZone Safety Surfacing and their industry-leading FallZone Poured-in-Place playground surfacing system—a perfect fit for the Lions Den’s needs.
Why Playground Surfacing Matters
Playgrounds are more than just places for kids to burn off energy; they’re environments where children develop physical skills, social bonds, and creative confidence. But with active play comes the risk of falls and injuries, making the choice of playground surfacing a critical decision for any park district. Traditional surfacing options like wood chips, sand, or gravel have long been used, but they come with drawbacks: uneven surfaces, frequent maintenance, and limited accessibility for children with mobility challenges. These materials can also degrade over time, creating safety hazards and diminishing the aesthetic appeal of the playground.
JAMPD understood that upgrading the Lions Den playground required a modern solution that prioritized safety, longevity, and inclusivity while enhancing the overall experience for visitors. After careful consideration, they turned to FallZone Safety Surfacing, a trusted name in the industry with a proven track record of delivering innovative, high-quality surfacing solutions. The FallZone Poured-in-Place system, showcased in a recent installation at Heritage Park (as seen in this YouTube Short: https://www.youtube.com/
FallZone Poured-in-Place Playground Surfacing: The Gold Standard in Playground Surfacing
So, what makes FallZone’s Poured-in-Place playground surfacing the industry’s premier choice? This advanced, two-layer system is engineered to deliver unmatched safety, durability, and customization, making it a game-changer for playgrounds like the Lions Den. Let’s break down the key components and benefits of this innovative surfacing solution, as outlined by FallZone Safety Surfacing (https://
1. Unparalleled Safety for Worry-Free Play
At the core of FallZone’s Poured-in-Place playground surfacing system is its commitment to safety. The system consists of two layers: a Safety Base Layer made from 100% recycled SBR/chunk rubber and a Wear Layer composed of 3/4” TPV (thermoplastic vulcanizate) rubber, both mixed with a low-odor polyurethane binder. The Safety Base Layer is poured over a stable sub-base (such as concrete, asphalt, or compacted crushed stone) and designed to meet the critical fall height requirements of the playground equipment, ensuring maximum shock absorption. This padded, flexible surface cushions falls, significantly reducing the risk of injuries from tumbles and trips—a critical consideration for JAMPD, given the high volume of children who visit the Lions Den daily.
The Wear Layer, the thickest in the industry at 3/4”, adds an extra layer of protection while maintaining a smooth, seamless surface. This design not only meets but exceeds safety standards, making it ideal for playgrounds with diverse equipment like slides, climbers, and swings. For parents and park officials alike, the peace of mind that comes with knowing children are playing on a surface engineered to protect them is invaluable. The Lions Den’s new FallZone Poured-in-Place playground surfacing ensures that kids can run, jump, and explore with confidence, while JAMPD can rest assured that they’re providing a safe environment for all.
2. Durability That Stands the Test of Time
Playgrounds endure heavy foot traffic, harsh weather, and constant use, which can wear down lesser surfacing materials quickly. FallZone’s Poured-in-Place playground surfacing system is built to withstand these challenges, offering exceptional durability that minimizes maintenance costs and extends the lifespan of the playground surface. The combination of high-quality recycled rubber and the robust TPV Wear Layer creates a surface that resists cracking, fading, and wear, even under the intense Ohio sun, rain, and snow.
For JAMPD, this durability translates into long-term savings and a consistently attractive playground. Unlike wood chips or gravel, which require frequent replenishment and leveling, FallZone Poured-in-Place seamless surface requires minimal upkeep, allowing park staff to focus on other priorities, such as hosting community events or maintaining Heritage Park’s trails and picnic areas. The Lions Den’s new surfacing, as highlighted in the YouTube Short (https://www.youtube.com/
3. Customization for a Unique Play Experience
One of the standout features of FallZone’s Poured-in-Place playground surfacing system is its ability to be customized to suit the aesthetic and functional needs of any playground. Available in a wide range of colors, the TPV Wear Layer can be designed to incorporate school colors, logos, or interactive patterns like hopscotch, foursquare, or themed shapes that complement the playground’s design. At the Lions Den, JAMPD leveraged this flexibility to create a visually striking surface that enhances the playground’s jungle-themed play structures, making the space even more engaging for children.
The ability to incorporate shapes, slopes, and mounds adds a dynamic, interactive element to the playground, encouraging imaginative play and physical activity. For example, the Lions Den’s surfacing could feature playful designs that evoke the spirit of the park’s namesake, Johnny Appleseed, or reflect the natural beauty of Heritage Park’s surroundings. This customization not only elevates the aesthetic appeal but also fosters a sense of place, making the Lions Den a unique destination that stands out in Allen County.
4. Accessibility for All Children
Inclusivity is a cornerstone of JAMPD’s mission, and the Lions Den is designed to be a welcoming space for children of all abilities. FallZone’s Poured-in-Place playground surfacing supports this goal by providing a smooth, seamless surface that is fully ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for children with mobility challenges. Unlike loose-fill materials that can create uneven surfaces or impede wheelchair movement, the Poured-in-Place system offers a firm yet cushioned surface that allows all children to navigate the playground with ease.
This commitment to accessibility aligns perfectly with JAMPD’s vision of creating inclusive community spaces. The Lions Den’s new surfacing ensures that every child, regardless of physical ability, can join in the fun, fostering a sense of belonging and community at Heritage Park.
5. Environmental Responsibility
As a park district dedicated to conserving natural resources, JAMPD values sustainability in its operations. FallZone’s Poured-in-Place playground surfacing system aligns with this ethos by incorporating 100% recycled SBR rubber in its Safety Base Layer, reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility. The system is also non-toxic and environmentally safe, ensuring that it’s gentle on both the planet and the children who play on it.
Additionally, the surface’s quick-draining properties minimize water pooling, reducing the risk of mold or mildew and ensuring the playground is ready for use even after heavy rain. This feature is particularly valuable in Ohio’s variable climate, where sudden downpours are common. By choosing FallZone Safety Surfacing, JAMPD demonstrates its commitment to sustainable practices while providing a high-performance playground surface.
6. Low Maintenance and Cost-Effectiveness
Maintaining a playground can be a significant expense for park districts, particularly when dealing with high-maintenance materials like wood chips or sand. FallZone’s Poured-in-Place playground surfacing system is designed for easy maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning to keep it looking pristine. Its seamless construction prevents debris from getting trapped, and its UV-resistant properties ensure that colors remain vibrant without the need for frequent touch-ups.
For JAMPD, this low-maintenance solution translates into significant cost savings over time. The Lions Den’s new surfacing, as showcased in the YouTube Short (https://www.youtube.com/
The Lions Den: A Showcase of FallZone Safety Surfacing Excellence
The installation of FallZone’s Poured-in-Place playground surfacing at the Lions Den is a testament to JAMPD’s commitment to excellence and innovation. The YouTube Short (https://www.youtube.com/
The Lions Den, already a beloved feature of Heritage Park, now stands as a model for other playgrounds in the region. Its colorful, durable, and accessible surface not only elevates the play experience but also reinforces JAMPD’s reputation as a forward-thinking park district that prioritizes safety and community well-being. Whether children are climbing, sliding, or running through the playground, the FallZone Poured-in-Place system ensures they can do so with confidence and joy.
Why FallZone Safety Surfacing?
FallZone Safety Surfacing has earned its reputation as the nationwide industry leader in playground surfacing through a commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With years of experience and a focus on using the highest-quality materials, FallZone delivers solutions that meet the unique needs of each project. Their Poured-in-Place system is a testament to their expertise, offering a perfect blend of safety, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
For JAMPD, partnering with FallZone Safety Surfacing was a natural choice. The company’s ability to customize designs, ensure accessibility, and provide a low-maintenance, environmentally friendly product aligned seamlessly with the park district’s goals. The result is a playground surface at the Lions Den that not only meets but exceeds expectations, creating a safe and inviting space for families to enjoy for years to come.
A Bright Future for Heritage Park’s Lions Den
The installation of FallZone’s Poured-in-Place playground surfacing at the Lions Den marks a new chapter for Heritage Park and the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District. By investing in a state-of-the-art surfacing solution, JAMPD has reinforced its commitment to providing safe, inclusive, and engaging spaces for the Allen County community. The Lions Den, with its vibrant new surface, is poised to remain a cornerstone of family fun and outdoor adventure, drawing visitors from across the region to experience its unique charm.
As JAMPD continues to grow and innovate, the partnership with FallZone Safety Surfacing serves as a model for other park districts looking to elevate their playgrounds. The benefits of FallZone’s Poured-in-Place playground surfacing system—unmatched safety, durability, customization, accessibility, and environmental responsibility—make it the clear choice for transforming play spaces into safe, vibrant, and inclusive environments.
Join the Fun at Heritage Park’s Lions Den
The Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District invites families, caregivers, and community members to experience the newly upgraded Lions Den at Heritage Park. Whether you’re a parent watching your child conquer the climbing wall, a grandparent enjoying a picnic nearby, or a child discovering the joy of play on a safe and colorful surface, the Lions Den offers something for everyone. Visit today to see firsthand how FallZone’s Poured-in-Place surfacing has transformed this beloved playground into a premier destination for fun and adventure.
For more information about Heritage Park and the Lions Den, visit https://jampd.com/park/
The Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District’s decision to partner with FallZone Safety Surfacing for the Lions Den playground at Heritage Park is a shining example of how thoughtful investment in quality infrastructure can transform community spaces. By choosing FallZone’s Poured-in-Place playground surfacing, JAMPD has created a safer, more durable, and more inclusive playground that will delight families for generations. With its vibrant colors, seamless design, and unmatched safety features, the Lions Den stands as a testament to the power of innovation in enhancing outdoor recreation. As children laugh, play, and grow on this state-of-the-art surface, JAMPD and FallZone Safety Surfacing are proving that when communities prioritize safety and quality, everyone wins. Come visit the Lions Den today and experience the difference for yourself
Contact Your FallZone Surfacing Specialist Today For More Information
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Benefits:
– High Durability: The most durable and reliable playground safety surfacing system, featuring a thick 3/4” TPV wear layer, the thickest in the industry, ensuring long-lasting performance.
– Dual-Layer System: Combines a safety base layer (100% recycled SBR/chunk rubber) and a wear layer (TPV rubber), providing superior shock absorption and surface resilience.
– Customizable Design: Available in various colors and can be custom-designed to meet unique aesthetic and design preferences, enhancing playground appeal.
– Non-Toxic and Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled materials and environmentally safe, ensuring safety for children and sustainability.
– Shock Absorption: Creates a soft, thick, flexible, and shock-absorbing surface that protects children from fall injuries, meeting critical fall height requirements.
– Compliance with Standards: Meets and exceeds CPSC, ASTM, and ADA guidelines, ensuring a safe and accessible play environment.
– Versatile Installation: Can be poured over concrete, asphalt, or D.O.T-certified compacted crushed stone, offering flexibility in installation.
– Reduced Injury Risk: Turns the fall zone into a padded base, significantly lowering the likelihood of serious head injuries or broken limbs from falls.
FallZone Synthetic Grass Playground Safety Surface
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Benefits:
– Natural Grass Appearance: Looks and feels like natural grass without the maintenance, providing an aesthetically pleasing and low-maintenance surface.
– High Safety Standards: Protects children from falls up to 12 feet, exceeding ASTM and CPSC safety guidelines, reducing the risk of serious injuries.
– Shock-Absorbing Base: Combines a padded, cushioned safety impact system underneath the synthetic grass, enhancing fall protection.
– Weather Resistance: Provides consistent safety in any weather, ensuring reliable performance in rain, heat, or cold.
– Durability in High Traffic: Suitable for high-traffic areas and under various types of playground equipment, maintaining safety and appearance over time.
– Cleaner and Safer: More comfortable and safer than traditional materials like sand, wood mulch, or rubber mulch, reducing abrasions and injuries.
– Customizable: Can be tailored to meet specific safety, design, or aesthetic requirements, offering flexibility for different playground designs.
– Low Maintenance: Eliminates the need for mowing, watering, or fertilizing, saving time and resources while maintaining a pristine look.
FallZone Splash Pads Playground Safety Surfaces
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Benefits:
– Non-Slip Surface: Provides a highly functional, slip-resistant surface, ideal for water play areas, enhancing safety by reducing the risk of slips and falls.
– Permeable and Porous: Allows water to pass through, preventing pooling and maintaining a dry, safe surface for play.
– Cushioned Comfort: Offers a padded, cushion-like surface that is comfortable to walk on, reducing fatigue and enhancing safety during falls.
– UV Ray Deflection: The top layer deflects UV rays, maintaining a cooler surface temperature and improving durability under sun exposure.
– Chlorine Resistance: Not affected by chlorine, making it suitable for pool decks and splash pads where chemical exposure is common.
– High Performance: Described as the finest product for splash pads, water play surfaces, and pool decks due to its combination of safety, design, and technology.
– Visually Stunning: Enhances the aesthetic appeal of water play areas with a durable, attractive surface.
– Consistent Temperature: Maintains a stable surface temperature, preventing it from becoming too hot, which improves user comfort and safety.
FallZone Bonded Rubber Playground Safety Surface
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Benefits:
– Eco-Friendly: Made from 100% recycled shredded rubber, contributing to environmental sustainability.
– Seamless Natural Look: Provides a unique, natural appearance due to the single-density pour of larger rubber pieces, enhancing aesthetic appeal.
– Cost-Effective: More affordable than poured-in-place surfacing, offering a budget-friendly option without compromising safety.
– Easy to Maintain: Requires minimal upkeep, reducing long-term maintenance costs and effort.
– Clean and Non-Toxic: Safe for children, free from harmful chemicals, and easy to keep clean, promoting a hygienic play environment.
– Versatile Application: Suitable for playgrounds, walking, and jogging trails, offering flexibility in use.
– Shock Absorption: Provides a cushioned surface that reduces the risk of serious injuries from falls, meeting safety standards.
– Compliance with Standards: Meets and exceeds CPSC, ASTM, and ADA guidelines for playground surfacing, ensuring regulatory compliance.