Mashpee’s New Pickleball Facility: A new 37,000-square-foot indoor pickleball facility will soon be built in Mashpee. The Cape Cod Commission approved the project, which will include 10 indoor pickleball courts and six golf simulation bays, after reviewing it as a development of regional impact. The facility is set to offer a 2,500-square-foot tavern, locker rooms, and a pro shop.
The proposed facility, located at 51 Evergreen Circle, will be housed in an industrial-looking building, blending with the surrounding area. With 91 parking spaces, including electric vehicle charging stations, the pickleball facility aims to serve the growing demand for indoor pickleball courts. The 3.6-acre site was previously used for heavy equipment storage.
The project was approved after the applicant, William Russell, sought approval from the Mashpee Planning Board for a special permit. The approval comes after a May 2024 vote by Mashpee residents that allowed indoor recreational facilities in industrial zones, although special permits are still required. Russell mentioned the increasing noise complaints from outdoor pickleball courts as a key reason for the need for the new indoor facility.
“There has been an increase in noise complaints from neighbors about some outdoor courts nationwide that have forced towns to put hourly restrictions and outright bans at some locations. Bans have already occurred in Falmouth, and early morning and evening play in Marstons Mills is restricted due to neighbor complaints… The need for indoor courts is compelling across many fronts. It’s good for town managers, good for neighbors, and good for the players.” – (Mr. Russell)
Environmental Concerns Addressed
One major concern during the review process was water quality. The facility is located between two nitrogen-impaired watersheds, Waquoit and Popponesset bays, which require action to reduce nitrogen levels. The Cape Cod Commission discussed the impact the project might have on these watersheds and how to manage nitrogen output.
The commission reviewed various methods for mitigating the nitrogen added by the new development. Russell proposed paying a nitrogen mitigation fee instead of providing nitrogen removal options. The fee was initially calculated at $363,990, reflecting the cost of removing nitrogen generated by the facility over 20 years.
Debate Over the Nitrogen Fee
During the commission meeting, Russell requested a reduction in the nitrogen mitigation fee, arguing that several aspects of the calculations should be adjusted. He suggested that the nitrogen output for the facility would be lower than initially estimated, proposing a reduced fee of $129,162.
“That reduction would be a 35 percent reduction, which is appropriate and specific for this particular project applies the same principles as the technical bulletin. I’m not asking for special considerations; I’m asking to apply a load in remediation consistent to this project.” – (Mr. Russell)
Despite his request, the commission ultimately decided to keep the fee at $363,990, citing concerns about setting a precedent for future projects. Some members supported the fee reduction, noting the project’s benefits for the community, while others were cautious about reducing the fee due to the environmental impact.
Community Support for the Facility
Russell emphasized the benefits the facility would bring to the community, including discounted rates for groups, community events, and nonprofit partnerships.
The Mashpee Town Manager also supported the project, highlighting the positive impact it would have on local businesses and tax revenue.
Mashpee’s pickleball community, along with supporters of recreational facilities, has shown strong backing for the project, with many eager for the new indoor pickleball courts to meet the growing demand.
The proposed pickleball facility would not only provide space for local players but also attract regional tournaments and events, further boosting the area’s appeal.
News in Brief: Mashpee’s New Pickleball Facility
Mashpee’s Cape Cod Commission has approved a new indoor pickleball facility at 51 Evergreen Circle. The 37,000-square-foot facility will feature 10 indoor pickleball courts, a tavern, and golf simulation bays. Despite debate over environmental fees, the project moves forward with significant community support.
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