Sedalia Seeks Grant for New Pickleball Facilities: To create more recreational options for residents, the Sedalia Park Board has requested a $500,000 matching grant from the state of Missouri. This funding will be used to build splash pad and pickleball courts specifically at Centennial Park.
The board made this decision during its monthly meeting at the Heckart Community Center on Thursday evening, located at 1800 W. 3rd. Parks & Recreation Director Amy Epple noted that the last time a similar grant was approved in the area was over 20 years ago, when the Centennial Pool was built.
A Boost for Pickleball
The grant, sourced from the Land, Water, and Conservation Fund, could provide vital financial support for the burgeoning sport of pickleball, which has seen a significant rise in popularity across the nation. “If we get this grant, we can do construction all at one time, instead of in phases,” Epple emphasized. John Simmons, the former Community Development Director who has transitioned to a full-time role with Sedalia Parks & Recreation, played an essential role as the grant writer for this initiative. His extensive experience in grant writing is expected to bolster the application’s chances of success.
“That’s the way we prefer to do it,” Epple added, stressing the benefits of comprehensive planning. “It’s beneficial to complete everything at once, rather than spreading it out over several years.” The total cost for the pickleball courts and splash pad is estimated at $1.5 million, with just over $1 million already allocated. The additional $500,000 would significantly enhance the project’s feasibility.
Community Engagement and Future Planning
With the proposed pickleball courts, Epple noted the need for community involvement. The park board is considering converting some of the six existing tennis courts at Liberty into pickleball courts, particularly since Smith-Cotton High School now has its own tennis facilities. A public forum will be organized to gather input from residents, and a survey is planned for November or December to assess community interest in the conversion.
Epple also mentioned the new splash pad will have a baseball theme, further diversifying the recreational offerings at Centennial Park. “The growing interest in pickleball makes it essential that we cater to this demand,” she stated, reinforcing the board’s commitment to enhancing local recreation.
Ongoing Projects and Developments
As the park board moves forward, it has also announced that the Request For Qualifications (RFQ) for other recreational projects on the east side of town has been issued. “That is finally moving, and it’s very exciting for us to get the official design team assembled,” Epple remarked. An environmental engineer will be involved, ensuring that the projects align with the Department of Natural Resources’ guidelines.
The Sedalia Park Board’s commitment to expanding recreational opportunities is further evidenced by the recent opening of new establishments in the area, including a Taco Bell and a proposed McDonald’s near the planned aquatic center and bowling alley.
The board is dedicated to fostering an environment where pickleball can thrive, as Epple pointed out the sport’s growing popularity. “Pickleball is not just a trend; it’s becoming a staple of our community’s recreational offerings,” she concluded.
News in Brief : Sedalia Seeks Grant for New Pickleball Facilities
The Sedalia Park Board has submitted a request for a $500,000 matching grant to construct dedicated pickleball courts and a splash pad at Centennial Park. Parks & Recreation Director Amy Epple highlighted the importance of completing the project in one phase rather than in stages. The total estimated cost is $1.5 million, with over $1 million already allocated. The board is also exploring the possibility of converting tennis courts at Liberty into pickleball courts to meet the growing demand for the sport.
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