Pickleball Court Plans at Cascade Park: Tullahoma is taking the first step toward adding pickleball courts at Cascade Park. The city’s Board of Mayor and Aldermen voted on Jan. 27 to approve an application for a Local Parks and Recreation Fund (LPRF) grant to help fund the project.
The grant, offered through the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, would require the city to match any awarded funds dollar-for-dollar.
If approved, the grant would contribute up to $750,000 toward the construction of several lighted outdoor pickleball courts, along with a new pavilion, parking lot improvements, an ADA sidewalk, and stormwater retention measures.
The total estimated cost of this pickleball project is $1.57 million, leaving the city responsible for covering the remaining $817,717.60 if the full grant amount is awarded.
View this post on Instagram
Officials Debate Project Costs
The funding request sparked discussion among city leaders, particularly Alderman Busch Thoma, who expressed concerns about the price tag.
“I looked at these figures, and I’m not opposed to pickleball. In fact, the one time I played it, I enjoyed it. But looking at this, it seems pretty extravagant in my mind.” – (Alderman Busch Thoma)
He suggested revising the plan to find a more affordable approach. Parks and Recreation Director J.P. Kraft acknowledged the cost but emphasized the project’s broader benefits.
“This is more of a quality-of-life thing for attracting people.” – (J.P. Kraft)
Mentioning that institutions like the University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI) struggle to attract people due to a lack of recreational options. Alderman Kurt Glick supported the project, highlighting the rapid growth of pickleball.
“Pickleball, despite its unfortunate name, started as more of a hobby and is now the fastest-growing sport in the world.” – (Alderman Kurt Glick)
He emphasized its accessibility for all ages, from children to seniors, and its potential to boost the community’s appeal.
Next Steps for the Project
With the board’s unanimous 7-0 vote, the city will proceed with the grant application. Kraft reassured the board that even if the grant is awarded, accepting the funds is not mandatory.
“If the city follows up and decides the funding is better allocated elsewhere, the city is free to return the money to the state.” – (J.P. Kraft)
If funding is secured, the project will move forward in two phases, with preliminary designs already developed by Nashville-based Lose Design. The city will await the grant decision before determining the next steps.
News in Brief: Pickleball Court Plans at Cascade Park
Tullahoma’s Board of Mayor and Aldermen approved an application for a state grant to help fund new pickleball courts at Cascade Park.
The project, estimated at $1.57 million, has drawn debate over costs but is seen as a way to enhance recreation in the community.
ALSO READ: From Sears to Courts: Freehold Raceway Mall Unveils a New Pickleball Facility