Queenston Heights Pickleball Court Upgrades: Pickleball players in Niagara-on-the-Lake will soon have new courts to enjoy. After two years of planning, the Niagara Parks Commission is completing a major refurbishment of the old tennis courts at Queenston Heights. The redesigned space will now include dedicated pickleball courts alongside tennis courts.
Players Eager for More Pickleball Options
Interest in pickleball has soared in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Local players have been eagerly awaiting new court options closer to home. Queenston resident and pickleball player Betty Knight said,
“I was so excited when I heard there would be pickleball courts there. I’d been hoping they would do that.” – (Betty Knight)
Knight, a member of the NOTL Pickleball Club, often walks by the courts. She noted recent progress, including resurfacing and work on fences and painted lines.
“I don’t see anybody playing tennis, at least very rarely. I did stop to watch once, and it was someone with a pickleball racket practising their shots.” – (Betty Knight)
A Blend of Tennis and Pickleball
David Adames, CEO of Niagara Parks Commission, explained that the project keeps the historical value of the location.
“There was quite a bit of space there. We took the existing location, with five courts, and built four tennis and four pickleball courts.” – (Adames)
The original footprint was maintained to balance modern needs with tradition. Courts can be booked in advance, though time will also be set aside for walk-up play.
“We think this will be good for both local residents and visitors, and Niagara Parks has always been about both.” – (Adames)
“there will be an equal number of courts. That gives a nod to the history of the location.” – (Adames)
Community Response and Court Features
Knight expressed some concerns about court spacing.
“The four that are there are too smooshed together. We’ll have a better idea of that when the lines are finished, and the fences between the courts are up.” – (Knight)
She also questioned why more pickleball courts weren’t added, given the space available. Despite this, she remains excited to play. Knight was surprised to learn there will be a charge to play but supports the idea. Pickleball courts will cost $5 per session, with a $65 annual pass option.
“I have no problem with paying, as long as I know what the rules are,” Knight said. She also highlighted pickleball’s social value. “That social component is very important as you age,” she said.
A Win for Tourism and Community
For Niagara Parks, the project aims to boost tourism as well. Adames and Parks Commission Chair Bob Gale stressed the importance of attracting visitors to the region.
“We have to help in any way we can for tourism, because tourists to Niagara-on-the-Lake help Niagara Parks – and tourists to Niagara Parks help Niagara-on-the-Lake.” – (gale)
“All those revenues come in and pay for those stewardship initiatives,” Adames explained. The court refurbishment is fully funded by Niagara Parks, including $750,000 for fencing and a sunshade. The courts are expected to open by June 20, with a grand opening later in the month. Minor improvements will continue after the courts open.
Additional Player Suggestions
Knight suggested one more addition: a windscreen.
“It’s always windy up there. If that’s not on their list, I’d suggest it should be. It would make it much more conducive to play.” – (Knight)
In the meantime, local pickleball fans are looking forward to enjoying their new courts in a beautiful and historic setting.
News in Brief: Queenston Heights Pickleball Court Upgrades
Queenston Heights’ tennis courts are now refurbished with four pickleball courts added. Players can start using the new courts by June 20. The project, funded by Niagara Parks, aims to attract both locals and tourists to the site.
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