COLUMN: SYNTHETIC TURF
Navigating the Complexity of Running Track Care By Arthur Eddy, ASLA, LEED AP
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aintaining a running track is a multifaceted responsibility that demands collaboration between facility directors and professional maintenance teams. Among the various aspects that demand attention: the maintenance of trench drains; the mitigation of slipping hazards caused by soil, debris, and mold/algae build-up that frees draining surfaces to eliminate long-term damage; and identifying and expediting repairs are critical components in ensuring the longevity and safety of running tracks. Both facility directors and professional maintenance teams play distinct yet complementary roles in addressing these issues. Facility directors, as overseers of athletic facilities, are tasked with the strategic planning and coordination of track maintenance efforts. Their role encompasses setting budgets, scheduling maintenance activities and ensuring that the overall maintenance strategy aligns with the facility’s goals. Due to the constant impact of athletes’ footsteps, exposure to varying weather conditions, and general usage, wear and tear on a running track is inevitable. Recognizing the significance of regular inspections and maintenance strategies is essential for maintaining the track’s integrity and preventing minor issues from escalating into major problems.
Recognizing the importance of regular cleaning and maintenance of running tracks is paramount.
14 • New England BLADE • Spring 2024
Trench drains, strategically positioned at the edges of running tracks, play a crucial role in managing water drainage. Over time, these drains can become clogged with debris, hindering their effectiveness and potentially causing water stagnation. This compromises the track’s structural integrity and creates a slipping hazard for athletes. Recognizing the importance of regular cleaning and maintenance of trench drains is paramount for both facility directors and professional maintenance teams. Professional maintenance teams, armed with specialized tools and expertise, play a central role in the physical clearing of trench drains. Utilizing high-pressure washers these teams ensure that debris is efficiently removed, allowing for unobstructed water drainage.
