Bozeman’s Bogert Park Faces Pickleball Noise: The rapidly growing sport that has taken over Bozeman’s Bogert Park. Nestled next to the pool and pavilion, seven fenced-off courts are a hive of activity, with players gathering from dawn until dusk.
Since opening two years ago, these courts have seen a surge in popularity. Local enthusiasts organize tournaments and consistently fill the courts, making it rare to find them empty during the day. “You see empty tennis courts all over the place,” noted frequent player Jason Frounfelker. “But when you drive by Bogert, there’s a good chance at least one court is being used all day long.”
Noise Complaints Emerge
However, with rising enthusiasm comes a growing number of noise complaints. As the sport gains traction in Bozeman and nationwide, residents near the courts are increasingly vocal about the racket, prompting the USA Pickleball organization to dedicate a webpage to “acoustics.”
Allie Buck, a nearby resident, recalls when the noise wasn’t an issue. But with games starting as early as 6 a.m. and stretching until 11 p.m., the once-quiet evenings have been disrupted. “Pickleball is extremely loud, so we can hear it through our walls,” she shared. “The issue isn’t the sport or the players; it’s the hours for something that’s really loud.”
City Response and Adjustments
In response to these complaints, the city has curtailed court hours to 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., a decision that has stirred discontent among players. Jamie Saitta, the city’s recreation program manager, indicated that courts will be padlocked outside these hours and explored potential solutions, such as noise-dampening mats and quieter pickleball equipment.
“Pickleball is just a louder sport,” Saitta explained. “The equipment used is fundamentally different from that of tennis, which makes it inherently noisier. We have a thriving pickleball community here, but we must address the legitimate concerns of neighbors.”
Seeking a Compromise
Many pickleball players are keenly aware of the noise issues and are eager to strike a balance. Doug Mavor, a member of the local pickleball community, emphasized the need for more flexible hours, especially during the scorching summer months. “You can imagine on weeks like this, with 95 degree weather today, afternoon hours are not very favorable. In fact, by 10 a.m, it’s too hot,” he stated.
While Saitta doesn’t anticipate a change in hours anytime soon, she noted that a long-term solution might involve constructing new courts in larger parks away from residential areas. Frounfelker echoed this sentiment, mentioning ongoing discussions about potential indoor facilities, though Bozeman’s steep real estate prices pose a significant hurdle.
The call for additional courts is clear, with city officials acknowledging the growing demand. “We know that there’s a need,” Saitta affirmed. As Bozeman’s pickleball community continues to thrive, finding a compromise that satisfies both players and residents will be essential for the sport’s future.
News in Brief: Bozeman’s Bogert Park Faces Pickleball Noise
Bozeman’s Bogert Park has become a bustling hub for pickleball, featuring seven fenced courts that attract players from dawn until dusk. Since opening two years ago, the courts have seen immense popularity, often filled with players, unlike nearby empty tennis courts. However, this surge has led to noise complaints from local residents, prompting the city to limit court hours to 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. City officials are exploring solutions like noise-dampening mats while players advocate for more flexible hours, especially during hot summer months.
ALSO READ: Garrett Coliseum Introduces 10 Indoor Pickleball courts
