As the project progresses and moves through its different phases, different phrases can be heard around the job site.  As we move through the site development, phrases like, “above grade,” “on grade,” and “below grade” can be heard with some frequency.  These expressions refer to the grade of the surface of the ground and whether it will have to be “filled” of “cut.”  For instance if the ground is “below grade,” then “fill” will have to be brought in so that it can be brought up to grade.  If the ground is “above grade” then it will have to be “cut” and brought back down to grade. The playground area is below grade and therefore soil has to be brought in so that it can be brought up to the correct grade (see picture below).