Crushed gravel makes for safer walking on school grounds

Prince William County Public Schools spread nearly 330 tons of ground gray gravel across school roadways and parking lots last week to battle nature’s first ice and snow assault of the season.

Surprised parents and students wondered what became of the old brown sand, until they learned that the new “manufactured sand” offers greater traction.

“No one will be slipping on this gray stuff,” Facilities Services Director John Windley was quoted as saying in a press release. “As always, we are putting safety first,” he added.

Come springtime, the School Division will be sweeping up remaining gravel to help keep it from reaching storm sewers and polluting waterways, in an effort to comply with strict state and federal rules.

For now, look for the gray gravel to help make for better driving and footing on wintry pavement. “The gravel blends in and is a little harder to spot. But, if the lot is sprinkled with gray, it’s good to go,” added Windley.