Services: PLAN DEVELOPMENT and REVIEW

Our plan development and review services provide cities, school districts, architects, and other playground stakeholders with the detailed, actionable roadmaps needed to bring projects to life efficiently and effectively. With over 30 years of industry expertise, we create comprehensive project plans from scratch or meticulously evaluate existing ones to ensure compliance, functionality, and alignment with safety, accessibility, and budgetary requirements. Our goal is to mitigate risks, streamline execution, and deliver playgrounds that meet community needs and exceed expectations. Our services include:

• Comprehensive Plan Development: We craft detailed project plans that serve as blueprints for successful playground installations. This includes defining project scope, timelines, and milestones, as well as specifying equipment, materials, and safety surfacing options. Our plans cover site preparation, installation logistics, and post-installation maintenance requirements, ensuring all aspects of the project are accounted for. We also integrate contingency plans to address potential challenges, such as weather delays or unexpected site conditions.

• Site Analysis and Feasibility Studies: Before planning begins, we conduct thorough site evaluations to assess topography, soil conditions, drainage, and existing infrastructure. Our feasibility studies identify potential obstacles, such as utility conflicts or environmental constraints, and recommend solutions to optimize the site for playground construction. We also evaluate site accessibility to ensure compliance with ADA standards and local zoning regulations.

• Regulatory Compliance Review: We ensure your playground plans adhere to all relevant safety and accessibility standards, including ASTM F1487, CPSC guidelines, ADA requirements, and local building codes. Our team reviews equipment specifications, fall zones, and surfacing plans to confirm compliance, reducing the risk of costly revisions or legal issues. We also provide documentation to support permitting and approval processes with municipal authorities.

• Budget and Cost Analysis: Our plans include detailed cost breakdowns, covering equipment, labor, site preparation, and long-term maintenance. We work with you to align the plan with your budget, identifying cost-saving opportunities such as modular equipment or phased construction without compromising quality. Additionally, we assist in identifying funding sources, such as grants from the National Recreation and Park Association or state-level programs, to offset project costs.

• Stakeholder Coordination and Communication: We facilitate seamless collaboration among all project stakeholders, including city officials, school administrators, architects, contractors, and community groups. Our plans outline clear communication protocols and decision-making processes to keep the project on track. We also provide stakeholder-friendly summaries and visual aids, such as site maps and timelines, to ensure transparency and alignment.

• Risk Assessment and Mitigation: We proactively identify potential risks, such as equipment installation errors, budget overruns, or non-compliance issues, and develop strategies to address them. Our plans include detailed risk management protocols, such as quality control checkpoints and contractor oversight guidelines, to ensure the project stays on schedule and meets all specifications.

• Plan Review and Optimization: For clients with existing playground plans, we conduct in-depth reviews to identify gaps, inconsistencies, or areas for improvement. This includes evaluating design feasibility, safety compliance, and cost-effectiveness. We provide detailed feedback and recommendations, such as adjusting equipment layouts to optimize space or updating materials to enhance durability, ensuring the plan is fully optimized before construction begins.

• Sustainability and Maintenance Planning: Our plans incorporate sustainable practices, such as selecting eco-friendly materials and designing for low-maintenance upkeep. We provide long-term maintenance schedules, outlining tasks like surfacing inspections, equipment cleaning, and repairs, to extend the playground’s lifespan and ensure ongoing safety. We also recommend sustainable features, such as native landscaping or energy-efficient lighting, to reduce environmental impact.

• Construction and Installation Oversight Guidelines: Our plans include step-by-step installation instructions and contractor requirements to ensure proper execution. We specify industry-standard installation practices, such as anchoring systems and surfacing depth, and provide checklists for quality assurance during construction. If requested, we can coordinate with certified playground safety inspectors (CPSI) to verify installation compliance.

Our process begins with a detailed consultation to understand your project goals, followed by site analysis, plan drafting, and iterative feedback to refine the plan. For plan reviews, we deliver a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations and, if needed, revised documentation. Our deliverables include digital and hard-copy plans, compliance certifications, and supporting materials to facilitate approvals and construction. Whether developing a new plan or refining an existing one, our services ensure your playground project is executed flawlessly, on time, and within budget.