Pickleball Noise Complaints in Chestnut Hill: In recent years, the rapid growth of pickleball has led to increasing noise complaints, particularly from residents living near courts. A notable case in 2022 in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, highlighted this issue when locals began protesting the relentless popping sound of pickleball play. Temple University’s College of Engineering responded to these concerns, launching a study to address the noise problem.
Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering Haijun Liu and PhD candidate Subhrodeep Ray have since developed a potential solution: an absorptive sound barrier tailored to reduce the unique noise generated by pickleball.
Pickleball’s signature high-pitched sound, harsher than the softer thud of a tennis ball, has led to widespread complaints as more tennis courts are converted for pickleball use. After being approached by a Temple colleague, Liu, and Ray began an in-depth study, measuring sound levels at various courts and conducting interviews with residents across the U.S.
Their research revealed that existing noise reduction solutions are inadequate for pickleball. Common products are either too bulky or create unwanted echo effects, increasing the noise problem.
To address these shortcomings, Liu and Ray designed a barrier made of acrylic plastic. The barrier features a perforated front panel and a solid back panel with an air gap, optimized to absorb the specific frequencies of pickleball noise. This design not only effectively reduces noise but also maintains safety and aesthetics, with transparency to ensure visibility on the courts.
The team is currently finalizing lab tests and plans to install the barriers at the Water Tower Recreation Center for a pilot study later this year. Early results show a 90% sound absorption rate when the panels are hit perpendicularly by sound waves, with ongoing efforts to achieve at least 50% absorption at various angles.
Liu and Ray’s work represents a promising step towards resolving the noise issues ruining pickleball courts nationwide, balancing the needs of players with the concerns of nearby residents. As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, its innovation could offer a much-needed compromise in communities across the country.
News in Brief: Pickleball Noise Complaints in Chestnut Hill
The rapid rise of pickleball has led to noise complaints from residents near courts, notably in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia. In response, Temple University’s Associate Professor Haijun Liu and PhD candidate Subhrodeep Ray developed an absorptive sound barrier to reduce the distinctive, high-pitched noise of pickleball.
Their acrylic barrier features a perforated front panel, a solid back panel, and an air gap, optimizing it for pickleball noise while maintaining visibility and safety. Initial lab tests show promising results, with plans for a pilot study at Philadelphia’s Water Tower Recreation Center. Their innovation aims to balance the needs of players and residents.
