Key Biscayne Residents Demands Pickleball Courts: Key Biscayne residents are advocating for new pickleball courts on the island, citing growing demand for the sport. Eduardo Vedani, a resident, presented a petition with over 100 signatures to the Village Council last week, seeking a regular location for pickleball play.
Current Court Limitations
Currently, the group has limited access to the Calusa Park tennis facility from 9 a.m. to noon. They also have a pay-to-play option at the Key Biscayne Community Center gym, but it is available only on weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon. Vedani emphasized that pickleball is a popular sport for people of all ages, ranging from 10 to 75 years old. He highlighted how the sport brings people together and promotes health and fitness.
Growing Interest in Pickleball
Roberto Cortes, a longtime Key Biscayne resident, also spoke at the meeting about the increasing popularity of pickleball. Cortes compared the cost of creating new courts to painting a parking space, arguing that the investment needed would not be significant. The group is requesting two courts at one venue to accommodate the growing number of players.
The group has discussed potential locations with the Village’s Director of Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces, Todd Hofferberth. One possible location is Domino Park, though Cortes noted that removing several palm trees there would be costly. Another suggested spot is the northwest side of Village Green on Fernwood Road, next to the park for larger dogs. According to Cortes, this area offers around 5,000 square feet, which is enough for two courts.
Potential Costs and Support
Leandro Beer, a member of the group, shared a cost analysis, estimating that building two courts would cost between $50,000 and $75,000. He explained that with 50 to 75 active players, each game takes only 15 minutes, allowing many people to play throughout the day.
Beer also offered to share financial proposals with the Village Council to help with funding the courts.
Village Concerns
Village Manager Steve Williamson expressed concern about parking availability at the Village Green location. Mayor Joe Rasco, who is also a pickleball player, was unsure if that area was suitable, as it is already used for other sports like volleyball and field hockey. Rasco also mentioned that the maintenance of these areas is often poor due to heavy use.
The group hopes to continue working with the Village Council to find a solution and secure a permanent place for pickleball on the island. With the growing interest in the sport, adding more courts could help meet the demand and provide a space for the community to come together.
News in Brief: Key Biscayne Residents Demands Pickleball Courts
Key Biscayne residents are advocating for new pickleball courts due to rising demand. A petition with over 100 signatures was presented to the Village Council, requesting two courts at a central location. The group highlighted the sport’s popularity and proposed costs, aiming to provide a permanent space for the community.
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