Powell River’s Major Pickleball Move: The Powell River pickleball community is pushing for the construction of a new eight-court indoor pickleball facility, with the goal of providing more space for the growing sport. Representing the qathet Pickleball Association, Susan Young recently presented the proposal to the city council, requesting the lease of 1.25 acres of land adjacent to the upper parking lot of the Powell River Recreation Complex. Once the lease is secured, the association plans to begin fundraising efforts for the new facility.
Non-Profit Management Model
The association has also proposed managing the new facility under a non-profit model, similar to the structure already in place at the Powell River Racquet Centre. Young emphasized that this approach would ensure a community-focused, sustainable operation, offering a reliable space for pickleball players of all skill levels.
Growing Demand for Pickleball
Council members appeared generally supportive of the idea, with Councillor Jim Palm noting that the facility would foster collaboration between local pickleball groups, providing the infrastructure needed to accommodate the sport’s rapid growth.
Young highlighted the remarkable surge in popularity over the past decade, with the number of players expanding from just a dozen in 2013 to hundreds playing regularly each week.
Council to Review Lease Request
In response to the request, council members directed staff to further investigate the proposed lease, with plans to report back at a future meeting. The pickleball community eagerly awaits the next steps in securing the space that would help elevate the sport in Powell River.
News in Brief: Powell River’s Major Pickleball Move
Powell River’s qathet Pickleball Association has presented a proposal to the city council to build a new eight-court indoor pickleball facility. They are seeking to lease 1.25 acres of land near the Powell River Recreation Complex and plan to begin fundraising once the lease is secured.
The association has also proposed a non-profit management model for the facility, aiming to serve the growing pickleball community, which has seen significant growth over the past decade. Council has asked staff to explore the lease request and report back at a future meeting.
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