Centennial Park Pickleball Court Funding Debate: The Centennial Park pickleball courts in White Rock are now the busiest recreational space on the Peninsula, but growing demand has raised questions about the City’s priorities. While residents wait up to an hour to play, civic leaders continue to fund consultant studies instead of supporting volunteer-led sports groups.
A Long Fight for Courts
It took more than 15 years of lobbying from the White Rock Pickleball Association (WRPA) and local players to build the eight permanent courts. Four different city councils reviewed the project before it was approved. The new courts replaced two rarely used tennis courts, while three public tennis courts remain at Centennial Park.
Volunteer Efforts
The WRPA continues to maintain and support the facility at no cost to taxpayers. Volunteers provide pickleballs, organize tournaments, host themed weekly drop-ins such as Music Mondays and Women’s Tuesdays, and help clean and maintain the courts. The group offers these activities for just a $5 yearly membership.
WRPA now has over 600 members from White Rock and Surrey, with hundreds more non-members using the public courts daily. The popularity of the courts shows the strong demand for accessible recreation in the community.
City Priorities Questioned
After residents rejected the proposed “hub” project by more than 82 percent, the City of White Rock has turned to yet another consultant report. This time, the study is exploring the idea of building an outdoor swimming pool, even though the South Surrey indoor pool is already underused.
Community Contributions
Volunteer-run groups like the WRPA, local lawn bowling clubs, the curling club, and the tennis club provide thousands of volunteer hours each year. These groups help promote health, social connection, and a sense of belonging at no cost to the City.
Looking Ahead
The debate highlights a larger issue: how taxpayer money is used. Many believe community-run organizations like WRPA deliver far better value than more consultant reports. Stronger dialogue between city officials and residents may help ensure public funds go toward supporting the sports and activities people are already using.
News in Brief: Centennial Park Pickleball Court Funding Debate
Centennial Park’s pickleball courts are the busiest on the Peninsula, but volunteers say the City of White Rock is wasting money on new consultant reports instead of supporting community sports. The White Rock Pickleball Association, with 600 members, runs programs and maintains the courts with no cost to taxpayers.
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