Doogan Park Pickleball Plan: On July 7, 2025, nearly 100 residents gathered at Orland Park Village Hall to voice their opinions on a plan to build pickleball courts at Doogan Park. The Village Board decided to delay its final decision to allow more research on concerns raised by both supporters and opponents.
The original plan called for 10 pickleball courts at Doogan Park. This was part of a redevelopment project approved by the previous board and tied to grant applications. However, the current board, elected in May, suggested reducing the number of courts to two and placing more courts near the Sportsplex instead.
Supporters and Opponents Speak Out
Many residents supported keeping all 10 courts at Doogan Park. But others, especially neighbors of the park, raised concerns about noise, traffic, and parking. One resident presented a petition signed by 52 people opposing the project.
The Village Board, after hearing both sides during a one-hour discussion, unanimously voted to delay any changes. Mayor James Dodge explained his view clearly.
“I love the idea of spreading pickleball options broadly across the village. “I’m not crazy about doing it in Doogan Park – just so we’re all clear about my position.(James Dodge)
“A number of things have been said and there are some open questions for staff and there is no reason we have to vote tonight to descope this.”(James Dodge)
Noise and Location Concerns
Ray Piattoni, Director of Recreation and Parks, addressed the board about the noise issue. He said the sound of a paddle hitting a ball from one court is 70 decibels at 100 feet away—about the same as a freeway or vacuum cleaner. That does not include cheering or shouting.
Ray Piattoni also mentioned that some cities in the U.S. have shut down pickleball courts or faced lawsuits due to noise.
Trustee Cynthia Nelson Katsenes noted that the previous board had not received this noise information while making decisions about Doogan Park.
Some residents were concerned about using the Sportsplex instead. They thought it was too far and feared they would be charged to play. However, the board said the pickleball area at the Sportsplex would be free to use.
Other Options and Next Steps
Mayor James Dodge assured the public that their voices were heard.
I wanted to make sure everyone had a chance to be heard. Both sides were present, and one had a petition of 52 people. It’s not an issue about pickleball. It’s an issue of where.”(James Dodge)
He added that the ice rink area in Centennial Park might also be a good spot for multiple courts.
“That may be a great location for multiple pickleball courts. That’s under consideration.”(James Dodge)
No matter the final location, the board believes construction can happen quickly once a decision is made.
News in Brief: Doogan Park Pickleball Plan
Orland Park trustees delayed a decision on the Doogan Park pickleball courts after a packed July 7 meeting at Village Hall. Residents spoke for and against building 10 courts due to noise and location issues. Mayor James Dodge said other sites, like Centennial Park, are under review.
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