Pickleball Hours Expand at Tiburon Peninsula Club: The Tiburon Planning Commission approved a proposal to extend pickleball hours at the Tiburon Peninsula Club after reviewing noise mitigation measures. The club, located at 1600 Mar West St., has taken significant steps to reduce noise from its pickleball courts, including building a 10-foot sound wall and using advanced materials.
Noise Reduction Efforts
The club hired Veneklasen Associates, a San Francisco-based acoustical analysis group, to assess noise levels. Consultant John Loverde reported that modifications reduced sound levels by up to six decibels at nearby locations. “The reductions were significant,” Loverde said, crediting the quieter materials and sound barriers for the improvement.
“The modifications of materials made the pickleball actively quieter at the receptor locations.” – (Loverde)
Current and Extended Hours
Currently, the club offers pickleball from:
- Tuesday-Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The club remains closed on Mondays. The extended hours will be determined by town staff following the modified conditional use permit.
Community Feedback and Concerns
Commissioner Kathleen Defever expressed concerns about the staccato nature of pickleball noise, emphasizing the need for better evaluation methods.
“The ongoing staccato — this is why the hours are so important. And despite the fact that it technically falls under the guidelines of the ordinance, it doesn’t mean that it’s not different. This is a different sport.” – (Kathleen Defever)
While the sound technically meets ordinance guidelines, she highlighted its distinct nature compared to other sports.
Investments in Pickleball Facilities
The club, home to four pickleball courts and five tennis courts, has invested $165,000 in noise mitigation measures, including constructing the sound wall. Board member Scott Miller stated the club remains committed to minimizing the impact of expanded hours.
“We really are trying to do everything we can to obviously invest in all of the updated materials to reduce sound.” – (Scott Miller)
Club Details and Membership
The Tiburon Peninsula Club serves about 700 families and 175 senior members. Membership costs include a $35,000 initiation fee, monthly dues of $420, and additional fees for activities such as pickleball tournaments and private lessons with a pickleball coach.
Looking Ahead
With growing interest in pickleball techniques and strategies, the club plans to host more pickleball events, including indoor and outdoor pickleball tournaments. These activities aim to enhance the player experience while addressing noise concerns to maintain harmony with the community.
News in Brief: Pickleball Hours Expand at Tiburon Peninsula Club
The Tiburon Peninsula Club is expanding pickleball hours following noise reduction efforts. The club has invested $165,000 in sound barriers, cutting noise by six decibels. Membership remains strong, with plans to host more pickleball tournaments and events. Town staff will finalize the extended hours under a modified permit.
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