By NORMA Group
NDS Gravel Pavers at major state park and recreation area withstand the test of time
In 2017, a natural resource agency in Georgia was in the process of constructing a parking lot for public access to a 6,800-acre area with lake access that offers hunting and fishing activity, a boat ramp and wildlife viewing. The agency specifically requested that the new parking area blend in with the natural park environment. In addition, the team wanted to ensure the lot would be low-maintenance and made of environmentally friendly materials.
Knowing the client wanted a clean, natural look for the new lot and lake access, the NDS team recommended its EZ Roll® gravel pavers. When filled, EZ Roll pavers have a compressive strength of 500,000 lbs., making the product ideal for a highly trafficked public parking area. The pavers are also environmentally friendly as they are made from 100% HPDE recycled plastic and contribute to LEED credits.
Project Summary
Project Type
Capture & Infiltration
Property
Parking Lot
NDS Products Used
Easy Maintenance and Placement
The project specifier appreciated that the gravel pavers would require less maintenance over time compared to traditional concrete or asphalt and would not produce any stormwater runoff. And because of its permeability, would also minimize demands on the drainage systems in the area.
During installation, approximately 10 rolls of pavers were needed to create 64 parking spaces and an access driveway to the park’s lake. Given the product comes in large rolls and features locking tabs on the sides and ends, the construction team reported an easy installation. The state agency chose the black option as it blended in well with the surrounding area and the 3/8 in. limestone they used to fill it with. The pavers are also available in tan and grey.
Each parking stall was indicated by the use of NDS exclusive parking delineators. These colored markers outline the spaces for vehicles and help keep the parking area well organized.
Five Year Check Shows Durability of Product
The project was completed in July 2017, and a review of the durability and look of the pavers was conducted in 2022. After five years of constant use and heavy traffic from multiple vehicle types (including boat trailers and busses), the paver system was performing well.
With limited maintenance, the parking areas remain serviceable, and have sustained the high traffic as well as the dynamic loading caused by vehicles pulling trailers and boats. Rainwater is still able to permeate through the system and has held up well to the heavy weights.
