CASe STUDY: How Grass Pavers Support Sustainability

Challenge: Install an emergency fire lane that doesn’t generate additional stormwater runoff

With new US headquarters in Englewood Clis, NJ, LG Electronics is situated along the Hudson River overlooking the New York City skyline. Features of the new space included energy efficient building systems, lighting, solar panels, a green roof and courtyards as well as reforesting plans. In addition, part of the overall project required the installation of an emergency access fire lane that met local codes while minimizing stormwater runoff.

Solution: EZ Roll reinforced turf ideal for absorbing rainfall and handling significant structural loads

Typically vehicle access lanes are paved, which greatly increases water runoff. Due to the wetlands on the site, this was an issue LG was already dealing with. NDS worked with the designer to propose a cost-effective solution to help mitigate impervious paved areas with its EZ Roll Grass Pavers. This sustainable solution – which is made of recycled plastic – reduces impervious area runoff volume and size of downstream best management practices. NDS EZ Roll features hexagonal cells that connect to form aflexible grid capable of handling significant structural loads that meet or exceed AASHTO-H20, while still blending with the natural grass surface. The project manager had a strong preference for NDS EZ Roll since experiencing issues with the “ringed” competitor as EZ Roll’s honeycomb shaped cells’ higher compressive strength allows for the use of well-draining loamy soil, instead of sand, which enhances stormwater absorption and enables healthy grass growth.

Impact: Preassembled rolls with snap-lock system save time, labor and contribute to LEED credits

NDS staff partnered with all stakeholders throughout the design, construction and approval process to ensure everything went smoothly. Manufactured in CA, NDS EZ Roll was perfectly suited for this project since it is made in 4 ft. wide rolls, ideal for a standard 20 ft. re lane (four rolls wide without cutting), reducing waste and labor. Each roll snaps into the adjacent, along the edge, for added strength. In addition, EZ Roll is made from 100% recycled plastic and helped contribute to LG’s sustainability efforts.