Sycamore trustees hear $5.5 million playground audit; board asks staff for phased, lower‑cost options

Sycamore Board of Education members heard an audit of the district’s playgrounds that estimated about $5,500,000 to upgrade surfacing, equipment and site work to a universal, accessible design.

The audit, presented by district staff, examined surfacing, equipment condition, fencing and contingency costs and compared two primary surface options: a poured rubber surface and a thicker “bonded” rubber surface. "They came up with the number that was presented at the financial retreat, so that 5,500,000.0," the presenter said. "Poured is exactly what it sounds like ... it's poured out at about a half‑inch depth," while the bonded option is roughly "4 inches thick," the presenter added.

The board’s immediate concern was cost and timing. Trustees and staff repeatedly noted the district’s five‑year capital forecast currently shows about $4.1 million available for capital needs and that the playground total is not included in that figure. "We do not have $5,500,000 in our current 5 year forecast to do this," a board member said.…