Port Alberni Pickleballers: Port Alberni’s largest pickleball group, the PA Picklers, has taken a big step toward expanding playing space by gaining support from the city council. With over 130 members and growing, the club says demand has outpaced current court availability. The group now plans to apply for funding to build new courts — but they’ll need to raise an estimated $150,000 to make it happen.
Growing Demand, Limited Space
The PA Picklers, representing one of several local groups with a total of 500 players, made their case to the city council at its May 12 meeting.
“…the current recreational infrastructure for pickleball in Port Alberni has not kept pace with the growing demand,” wrote R. Crema, a delegate from the club’s grant committee, in a letter included in the meeting’s agenda.
At present, Port Alberni only has four public courts for pickleball at Gyro Park. Those courts require users to install their nets each time. Other temporary courts painted on the outdoor lacrosse box are often booked in advance by the Echo Sunshine Club, limiting access.
The Plan for Expansion
The PA Picklers have proposed converting two of the five tennis courts at Gyro Park into six permanent pickleball courts. These courts would include dedicated line markings, proper fencing, and permanent nets. Another tennis court would become a flexible-use area, with portable nets that can accommodate different racquet sports.
According to Sam Doumont, a member of the club, the planned changes would still support tennis players. “It’s not just about us, it’s about the whole racquet sports in that area,” he said. The club hopes to partner with the city for long-term maintenance once the courts are built.
Council Gives the Green Light — With Conditions
City council agreed to provide the PA Picklers with a letter of support, a key requirement for their grant applications. Councillor Debbie Haggard noted that the group had been missing out on funding because they lacked such a letter. She also moved that the city “work closely” with the club on design and cost planning.
Councillors Charles Mealey and Todd Patola expressed caution. Patola stated, “Sending out a letter of support is one thing… committing city resources is another thing,” highlighting that the city’s recreational master plan is still incomplete.
Still, Mayor Sharie Minions backed the motion. “Sometimes we get caught up in the planning,” she said. “There’s no question we need more pickleball courts.”
What’s Next: Fundraising and Final Design
With the city’s support secured just before their grant application deadline, the PA Picklers are now focused on raising an additional $150,000 to fund the expansion. Len Doumont from the club shared his relief: “We’re kind of excited,” he said after the meeting.
While some funding is already in place, the rest will come from community fundraising efforts and potential grants, now made possible with council’s official support.
News in Brief: Port Alberni Pickleballers
Port Alberni’s PA Picklers gained city council support for new pickleball courts at Gyro Park. Their plan includes six permanent courts and a multi-use space. The club now aims to raise $150,000 and apply for grants.
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