Millstream Park Pickleball Court opening: The city of St. Joseph has opened four new pickleball courts at Millstream Park, located at 725 County Road 75 West. The courts, completed in late June 2025, were built in response to local demand and cost about $270,000, funded by the city’s parks board.
The fenced-in courts are already attracting a steady stream of players. Rhonda Juell, Recreation Director for St. Joseph, said the courts are busiest in the morning when the weather is cooler. The courts operate without a scheduling system and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
“They are always busy, but not full,” Rhonda Juell said. “People are using it in the mornings then there’s not too much heat.”
Park Enhancements Still Underway
Although the courts are open for play, Juell noted that some updates are still needed. She said balls often roll under parts of the fence, which needs to be lowered. Additionally, the gravel parking lot needs improvement, as loose rocks are being carried onto the court surface.
“We need to pave the area where (visitors) park as rocks are getting brought into the courts,” Juell said.
The city plans to lower the fence later this summer. However, paving the parking lot may be delayed until next year due to budgeting.
Thoughtful Court Placement
The decision to place the courts in Millstream Park was made carefully. Juell said the park’s location, away from homes, helps reduce noise complaints from the sound of the game.
“It is away from residential areas because the noise of the ball hitting the paddles all the time irritates people having to listen to it,” Juell said.
Pickleball’s Growing Popularity
Pickleball continues to grow across the country. According to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association, also known as SFIA, the sport grew nearly 52% between 2022 and 2023. The group reports that adults aged 25 to 34 are the largest group of players.
“The 2024 State of Pickleball Report showcases this surge in participation and the cross-generational excitement for the sport,” SFIA spokesperson Alex Kerman wrote in a statement. “As we continue to support this rapid expansion, our priority is to ensure that pickleball remains accessible and enjoyable for everyone, fostering a thriving community of players.”
A Step Toward Community Growth
St. Joseph’s new pickleball courts reflect the town’s commitment to offering more recreational options as the sport becomes more popular nationwide. With more improvements on the way, the city hopes the courts will continue to bring residents together in a fun and healthy way.
News in Brief: Millstream Park Pickleball Court Opening
St. Joseph opened four new pickleball courts at Millstream Park, funded by the parks board. The courts are open daily and are popular with morning players. Some upgrades, like fencing and paving, are still needed. The move follows a national surge in pickleball’s popularity among younger adults.