Synthetic turf fields have been popping up across Nassau County, with the promise of longer playing time, decreased injury and fair competition. But the field’s underbelly, specifically its infill made of recycled tires, has local advocates paused asking for additional studies.
“I learned that more and more facilities are using turf fields,” Congressman Steve Israel said. He recently called on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for an updated, detailed study into crumb rubber infill. “I saw reports that the EPA hadn’t adequately researched [field turf] safety.”
Most studies are dated, with the latest chronicle being in 2009 by the EPA. The recycled tires made of the infill pose no threat, the study says, but the EPA admitted that “it is not possible to reach any more comprehensive conclusions without the consideration of additional data.”
New Hyde Park Memorial High School will have a new turf football field installed over the next two years. The plan is part of an $86.6 million bond referendum that Sewanhaka Central High School District voters approved in May 2014.
“The key with the synthetic turf in our communities is we’re so landlocked in terms of the amount of field space for not only the five high schools but for all the community groups,” District Superintendent Dr. Ralph Ferrie said. “When you have synthetic turf, they can use it as much as they want as long as they are available.”
New Hyde Park will receive $10.8 million in renovations from the bond, including a synthetic football field, new science and music rooms, renovated parking lots, a revamped auditorium as well as door replacements. New wrestling and fitness rooms, guidance offices and a roof are also planned.
“Some of the [health] concerns were raised during the bond process and from what I understand, we’ve been assured that these fields are safe,” District School Board President Dave Fowler said. “We would not want to put people at risk. I’m comfortable with the science at this time that suggests the fields are safe.”
The district selected Landtek, an Amityville-based turf company, to handle field installation at the district’s five high schools in New Hyde Park, Elmont Memorial, H. Frank Carey, Floral
Park Memorial and Sewanhaka on Feb. 3. The company will also spearhead the district’s plan to irrigate its soccer and baseball fields with natural grass and renovation of its running tracks.
Ferrie argues studies are a case-by-case basis, but says he relied on independent analysis from universities in selecting synthetic turf for the district.
“It depends on what literature you read,” Ferrie said. “I have tons of independent literature that supports [field turf] safety.”
Ferrie feels his previous go-around with field turf helped the process; most recently when he served as superintendent of Monroe Township School District before joining Sewanhaka.
‘I’ve installed these fields [at other districts],” Ferrie said. “Everything has been fine. The studies identify how much of [the crumb rubber] would have to be ingested to be a problem.
But it’s not a problem.”
