Greenfield Eyes Expansion of Pickleball Courts: The Community Preservation Committee in Greenfield recently reviewed two proposals for pickleball courts while considering 14 applicants for fiscal year 2026 Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding. These funds support local projects related to housing, historic preservation, open space conservation, and outdoor recreation. The CPA allows municipalities to impose a property tax surcharge of up to 3%, which is matched by state funds.
Proposal for New Pickleball Courts
Amy Proietti presented a request for $50,000 towards a $700,000 expansion of pickleball courts at Abercrombie Field on Montague City Road. The proposed project aims to build a six-court facility with amenities like parking spaces, benches, a bike rack, trash receptacles, and a water fountain.
Pickleball has expanded rapidly across the region in the past five years, and Greenfield’s single pickleball court no longer supports the demand.” – (Proietti)
She emphasized that the new facility is a necessary addition to Greenfield’s park system. When committee member Wisty Rorabacher questioned the rise in costs from an earlier estimate of $300,000 to the current $700,000, Proietti attributed this to increased construction and planning expenses.
The project will also feature storm-resilient infrastructure, including water-permeable surfaces and rain gardens to manage runoff.
Additional Funding Efforts
Proietti mentioned that the applicant is seeking an additional $250,000 in capital funding and plans to raise at least $25,000 from the community.
Recreation Director Christy Moore explained that ongoing maintenance for the courts will be minimal, handled by the Department of Public Works’ Parks and Forestry Division and a volunteer group.
Existing Infrastructure Improvements
In a separate proposal, Franklin County Pickleball Group Fundraising Chair Mike Reddig requested $22,361 to improve climate-resilient infrastructure at Green River Park’s existing pickleball and basketball courts.
This proposal includes the construction of a drainage ditch, shade netting, and resurfacing the courts.
“Parts of my proposal are vital and would benefit not only the pickleball players, but other users of Green River Park.” – (Reddig)
Broader Recreation Goals
Besides the pickleball proposals, the Community Preservation Committee reviewed a request from the Greenfield Recreation Department for $32,000 to build STEM-based play equipment at Hillside Park.
This equipment aims to enhance learning and develop skills for children. Moore assured that while nothing is “vandal-proof,” the structures are designed to be durable. The committee plans to discuss these applications further in their next meeting on January 30.
News in Brief: Greenfield Eyes Expansion of Pickleball Courts
The Greenfield Community Preservation Committee reviewed two proposals for pickleball courts, seeking funding to expand facilities and improve existing infrastructure.
These initiatives aim to enhance recreational opportunities and meet the growing demand for pickleball in the community. The committee will continue discussions on January 30.
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