Nantucket Plans to Regulate Pickleball Courts: Nantucket officials are considering regulations for pickleball courts due to noise complaints. The Planning Board introduced a draft zoning bylaw that will be discussed at the Annual Town Meeting on May 3. While initially seen as a potential islandwide ban, the board clarified it intends to regulate court placement.
Noise Issues Spark Debate
Pickleball, a fast-growing sport on Nantucket and nationwide, has raised concerns over noise from the sharp “pop” of plastic balls. Megan Trudel, senior planner, explained the issue stems from complaints near existing pickleball courts.
“This has come out of a lot of feedback we’ve been hearing,” Trudel said. The Planning Board hopes to control pickleball court proliferation in dense residential areas but emphasized that the proposed bylaw is only a starting point.
Clarification on Proposed Changes
Dave Iverson, Planning Board Chair, clarified that the proposal is not a ban on pickleball. It aims to regulate the placement of courts in residential districts. Iverson emphasized that existing courts would not be affected.
“We can’t amend an article to make it more restrictive, but we can make it less restrictive,” he explained. The board plans to revisit the issue at a meeting on Tuesday, potentially amending the article based on community feedback.
Concerns from the Pickleball Community
Pickleball advocates quickly voiced their concerns after the draft article surfaced. Jill Vieth, a member of the Nantucket Racquet Sports Association, expressed frustration, saying, “Pickleball is one of the best avenues to keep our island connected.”
Vieth argued that pickleball is an affordable and inclusive activity that fosters community connections across generations.
Broader Noise Concerns
Noise complaints about pickleball are not unique to Nantucket. As the sport’s popularity grows, other communities face similar issues. In Falmouth, a proposed court near residential areas faced resistance due to noise concerns.
Nantucket Racquet Sports Association President Tom Dixon pointed out that the courts off Nobadeer Farm Road have not received complaints and are planning to build additional courts due to high demand. “The noise seems to be grating for some people,” Dixon acknowledged.
Future of Pickleball in Nantucket
The outcome of the town meeting could impact the future of pickleball in Nantucket. If the regulations are approved, it may limit where new courts can be built, especially in residential areas.
The debate will continue as the community works to balance recreational needs with residential peace.
News in Brief: Nantucket Plans to Regulate Pickleball Courts
Nantucket is considering new regulations for pickleball courts after noise complaints from residents. While initially thought to be a potential ban, the Planning Board clarified the proposal aims to regulate court placement in dense residential areas. The issue will be discussed further at the Annual Town Meeting in May.
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