Future of Pickleball at Holbrook-Palmer Park: As the pickleball trial at Holbrook-Palmer Park nears its conclusion, the town is evaluating how the sport will be integrated into the park’s future. A public survey, conducted from June through July, sought feedback from park visitors, including tennis and pickleball players, guests, and nearby residents.
The park currently hosts two pickleball courts, marked on one of its tennis courts, with reservations available to keyholders daily from 9 a.m. to noon, and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 to 7 p.m. The trial, which began in January, has seen a significant rise in court reservations, with a steady increase from 8 in January to 124 in June.
During a July 17 City Council meeting, Public Works Director Robert Ovadia presented interim survey results. He noted that interest in pickleball is growing, with 73% of respondents supporting the establishment of permanent courts at the park. Players expressed a desire for extended hours and a mix of reservation and drop-in systems.
The survey also highlighted concerns about limited tennis court availability, especially during summer camps and private lessons. Some respondents reported that reserved courts were often left unused, leading Council member Bill Widmer to suggest implementing a check-in system to ensure courts are properly utilized.
More than half of the survey respondents are keyholders, with 27% purchasing keys specifically for the pickleball trial, indicating a growing interest in the sport. Despite the town’s efforts to reduce noise with soundproofing materials, some residents still expressed concerns about the noise generated by pickleball play.
Survey participants were divided on where permanent pickleball courts should be located. Of 138 responses, 42% supported converting an existing tennis court, while 41% favored building a new court elsewhere in the park.
The Park and Recreation Committee will review the final survey results and discuss the future of pickleball at their September meeting. A comprehensive report will be presented to the council at a later date, according to Ovadia.
News in Brief: Future of Pickleball at Holbrook-Palmer Park
Atherton, California, is evaluating the future of pickleball at Holbrook-Palmer Park as a trial period concludes. A public survey conducted from June to July revealed growing support for the sport, with 73% of respondents favoring permanent courts. Currently, pickleball is played on two marked tennis courts with keyholder reservations.
Despite increased interest, concerns include limited tennis court availability and noise from play. The survey showed divided opinions on whether to convert a tennis court or build a new one. Final results will be reviewed in September by the Park and Recreation Committee, with recommendations to follow.
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