The Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County, part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, recently conducted specialized testing to assess lead levels in rubberized play surfaces.

Fifty-four of the Department’s playgrounds contain Poured-in-Place (PIP) rubber surfacing to enhance accessibility while reducing the likelihood of serious injuries from falls.

Riverdale Park School Playground

Surface testing at the 54 playgrounds indicated that EPA standards were met, with the exception of the playground at Riverdale Park School. The conclusion of the testing showed levels of lead above the EPA standards within rubber surfacing, resulting in the immediate closure of the playground to the public.

The Department posted signage on the entrance gate to announce the closure. Repairs are currently in progress and all rubber surfaces will be removed and replaced with Engineered Wood Fiber (EWF): a processed wood (approx. 2" length max.), ground to a fibrous consistency, free of hazardous elements, and engineered specifically for playgrounds. Upon completion of the renovations, retesting will be conducted prior to reopening to ensure compliance.

More information on the Department’s testing of lead in playground surfaces can be found here.

The Department of Parks and Recreation Help Desk is a one-stop-shop for reporting and checking the status of maintenance issues in our parks and facilities.

You can reach us:

• Online: Parks & Recreation Help Desk
• Email: Customer Service
• Phone: 301-699-2255; TTY 301-699-2544