Carmel Limits Pickleball Play at Forest Hill Park Amid Noise Concerns

Carmel Limits Pickleball Play at Forest Hill Park: Residents near Forest Hill Park in Carmel have secured temporary relief from the constant noise of pickleball. On December 12, the Forest and Beach Commission voted to limit the days and hours of play at the park’s four pickleball courts, responding to neighbors’ concerns over the sport’s disruptive sounds. The restrictions will take effect in January and last 90 days.

New Restrictions for Forest Hill Park Pickleball

Under the new rules, play will be allowed only from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The 90-day trial period begins once signs are installed. The Commission plans to assess the results before making formal recommendations to the Carmel City Council.

Public Works staff, directed by the Council, studied the issue and found that the noise levels exceeded city ordinance limits. They presented four options: banning pickleball, limiting play hours, requiring quieter equipment, or reducing the number of courts. Commissioners chose the option they felt balanced neighborhood concerns with players’ needs.

Residents and Players React to the Decision

John Kratchmer, who lives near the courts, expressed relief over the decision.

“Pickleball just isn’t a game that should be played in residential neighborhoods,”. “It is loud, and it is just ‘pop, pop, pop’ all day long. It’s not just the decibel level but the high pitch of the noise.”(John Kratchmer)

Pickleball enthusiasts like Suzi Crary, 80, who has won national titles in her age group, are supportive of the changes.

“Our group is certainly amenable to the changes. We’re not upset. We all empathize with the neighbors,” (Suzi Crary).

Crary was among the group that helped establish the courts four years ago by securing city approval, painting striping, and purchasing nets.

“Carmel is such fun, and we have a really good group of people,” (Suzi Crary).

Balancing Neighborhood Peace and Pickleball’s Popularity

Pickleball’s popularity has surged nationwide, but the sport’s characteristic “pop” has sparked conflicts in residential areas. The temporary restrictions aim to strike a balance between preserving neighborhood peace and maintaining the courts as a recreational space.

The trial period will provide insights into whether reduced hours alleviate concerns while still supporting the growing pickleball community. The Commission’s final recommendations could serve as a model for other cities facing similar challenges.

News in Brief: Carmel Limits Pickleball Play at Forest Hill Park