Point Mallard Park’s Pickleball Centers: Decatur Parks and Recreation officials are proposing new membership and usage fees for the city’s indoor pickleball and tennis facilities. The proposal includes charges for the new $2.5 million ClearSpan pickleball courts and the nearby Jimmy Johns Tennis Center. The rates will now go before the City Council for approval.
Proposed New Rates
The city plans to charge one membership rate for access to both the indoor pickleball and tennis facilities. The proposed membership costs are $250 annually for adults aged 19 to 61, $200 for seniors and military personnel, and $350 for families. Children 18 and under would continue to play for free. Daily rates would be $5 for adults and $3 for seniors.
For the Jimmy Johns Tennis Center, the proposal includes an increase in annual memberships. Single memberships would rise to $250, while family rates would go up to $350.
Seniors and military personnel, who previously played for free, would now face a $200 annual fee. Daily rates for the hard courts would be $5, while clay court sessions would be priced at $7. The cost for indoor bubble courts would rise to $30 per two-hour session.
The New Facilities
The new pickleball and tennis facilities are part of the city’s $2.5 million investment in Point Mallard Park. The pickleball center will have 12 courts, while the tennis center will have four indoor courts.
The goal is to provide year-round opportunities for both sports, regardless of weather. The new rates are meant to cover operational costs and ensure that users contribute fairly to the upkeep of these new amenities.
Reason Behind the Proposal
Nicole Belcher, Decatur Parks and Recreation’s marketing director, presented the proposal to the Parks and Recreation Board, which approved it. The proposal will now be reviewed by the City Council.
Belcher explained that there has been some debate among city officials about whether the indoor pickleball facility should charge fees, but the proposal reflects a desire for fairness. She stated that it seemed only right to charge pickleball players, as tennis players have been paying for years.
Impact of the Proposed Fees
The proposed fee increases are expected to help fund the maintenance and operation of the new facilities. However, the change may raise concerns for some residents, especially those who use the facilities regularly.
While younger players and families may not see much of an impact, seniors and military personnel who previously enjoyed free access may find the new rates a burden.
News in Brief: Point Mallard Park’s Pickleball Centers
Decatur Parks and Recreation is proposing new fees for its indoor pickleball and tennis facilities at Point Mallard Park. The membership rates would increase for tennis center users, and a new charge would apply to pickleball players. The City Council will review the proposal after the Parks and Recreation Board’s approval.
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