School grounds are more than just fields and classrooms—they are places of learning, discovery, and play. When schools add accessible pathways, particularly with durable systems like Eco-Tread, the transformation can be dramatic. Here’s why school administrators in Calgary and beyond are choosing accessible pathways and how Masters of Play is helping lead the way.
Making Learning Environments Truly Accessible
Students should be able to move between classrooms, playgrounds, assemblies, and outdoor learning areas with ease. Pathways built with accessible surfacing eliminate trip hazards and mobility barriers, ensuring inclusivity for students, staff, and visitors with walkers, wheelchairs, or strollers.
Enhancing School Safety
Proper pathway surfacing provides reliable traction, even when wet or icy. Eco-Tread surfaces are designed for slip resistance. This minimizes risks of falls during high-traffic times, transitions, and during inclement weather.
Supporting Outdoor Learning & Recess
When pathways connect outdoor classroom spaces, gardens, play areas, and sports fields, students move more freely. Nature walks, environmental education, and interactive learning can all happen without physical barriers. Recess time becomes safer and more fun.
Boosting School Image and Community Engagement
Well-designed, accessible grounds show that a school values inclusivity, safety, and aesthetics. Parents, local communities, and governing boards often respond well to improvements that show long-term care and planning. These spaces can also be used for community events, making them multipurpose.
Cost vs Long-Term Value
Initial investment in high-quality surfacing and concrete walkways may be greater, but the payoff is in reduced maintenance, lower risk of liability, and longer lifespan. Materials like Eco-Tread resist wear, shifting, and erosion.
Master of Play Projects: What Success Looks Like
At GPI Outdoor Designs (Masters of Play), recent school projects across Northern and Southern Alberta used Eco-Tread pathways to connect playground features, seating areas, and outdoor gathering spaces. These pathways not only improved accessibility but also enhanced aesthetics and functionality in a way that aligned with school budgets. Masters of Play
About Us
Masters of Play (GPI Outdoor Designs) is Calgary-based and has been a trusted name in inclusive playground design and installation for over 25 years. Specializing in accessible surfacing (Eco-Tread, PlayTurf, Infinity Turf), pathway and concrete work, and full playground construction, we manage every phase—from site prep to final hand-off. Our goal is to help schools, municipalities, and communities build play environments that are safe, accessible, and joyful for all. Masters of Play