Pickleball Courts at Artesian Park: The installation of permanent pickleball courts at Lake Bluff’s Artesian Park is moving forward after village trustees approved a park district application on February 10. The plan allows for the conversion of the recreational area into a space for tennis and pickleball.
Background of the Decision
The approval marks a significant step in a lengthy process to accommodate the growing popularity of pickleball in Lake Bluff. Village President Regis Charlot expressed satisfaction with the progress at the January 27 meeting when the ordinance was initially approved.
The decision follows a series of disputes regarding pickleball noise complaints at Blair Park, where the Park District had allowed play. A sound study determined that pickleball exceeded acceptable noise levels, prompting the relocation of play to Artesian Park.
Details of the RIO Plan
The approved Recreational Institutional and Open Space District (RIO) development plan includes extending the tennis court area by 30 feet, reducing the number of tennis courts from five to four.
This change will allow for the installation of four permanent pickleball courts. To maintain community tennis facilities, an additional tennis court will be added at Blair Park, resulting in six tennis courts and four pickleball courts overall.
To address noise concerns, a nearly 10-foot chain link fence with acoustic materials will be built between the tennis and pickleball courts. Village Administrator Drew Irvin emphasized the need to manage traffic volume as pickleball play will now occur alongside other activities, such as youth baseball.
Future Plans for the Courts
Following the village board’s approval, the park board must finalize the design for the new courts. Park District Executive Director John Bealer indicated that temporary pickleball courts will be available at Artesian this summer, regardless of when a permanent design is approved.
Park Board President Jennifer Beeler noted that the RIO plan, which lasts for ten years, provides flexibility in timing. However, renovations of the Blair Park Pool and Knollwood Park are currently prioritized due to state grants.
News in Brief: Pickleball Courts at Artesian Park
Lake Bluff’s village board approved permanent pickleball courts at Artesian Park on February 10. The plan converts part of the park for tennis and pickleball. Temporary courts will be available this summer, while final design approval is pending from the park board.
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