Royal Palm Academy installs playground shade structure
Royal Palm Academy recently celebrated the completion of its new playground shade structure, the first installation by SKYShades of Southwest Florida.
The 1,800-square-foot canopy, the first of its kind in Collier County, shields students from up to 98 percent of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, the strongest preventable risk factor for developing skin cancer.
“Shade for our prekindergarten playground was a parent-driven initiative,” said Tom Huckins, executive director of Royal Palm Academy, a 10-year-old private Catholic school serving 262 students through the eighth-grade.
“I know from personal experience that most sun damage happens before the 18th birthday, so we immediately began raising funds for the structure,” he said. “The parents responded with incredible support, and we chose SKYShades for the installation based on the structure design, its aesthetic appeal and functionality. An added benefit is the visual impact.
“Many people are noticing our campus for the first time,” Huckins added.
SKYShades of Southwest Florida began installation of the recently completed tension-membrane structure in December.
Engineered to withstand 140 mph wind loads, the structure has royal blue and bright yellow shade sails, and is made from a lightweight shade cloth that is guaranteed for a decade.
The fabric blocks UV rays while reducing the temperature of the covered area by as much as 30 percent.
Edmund Zammit of Avion Consulting served as owner representative and general contractor for the project.
“The installation services and technical support provided by SKYShades was top-notch,” said Zammit, who also has a child at the school. “From a construction standpoint, it was a very professional job, and it’s a great addition to the school campus.”