New Pickleball Courts at Fort Ontario: Oswego will build four new pickleball courts at Fort Ontario State Historic Site, thanks to a state parks grant. Mayor Robert Corradino announced that the city received $179,250 to fund the project, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Expanding Pickleball Access in Oswego
Currently, the city has four courts at Shapiro Park, located on the south side of the Oswego River. These courts often reach capacity, limiting play and causing parking congestion. The new courts will provide an additional space for players on the north side of the river.
“With the popularity of the sport exploding, it makes sense to provide another location for our residents to enjoy,” Corradino said in a Jan. 7 press release.
The new courts will be part of the Gallagher Park Improvement Project, named after the nearby Charles E. Gallagher Swimming Pool. The courts will be built at the corner of East 7th Street and Fort Ontario Road.
Project Timeline and Future Plans
The project has two phases. The first phase includes installing the courts, which will be funded by the state grant. The second phase will add a bathroom and picnic area. The city is seeking additional funding for this phase through grants or the city budget.
Corradino, who led the installation of the Shapiro Park courts in 2017 as a city councilor, highlighted the efficiency of converting tennis courts into pickleball courts.
“Turns out, one tennis court equals four pickleball courts,” said Corradino, who was elected mayor in 2023.
News in Brief: New Pickleball Courts at Fort Ontario
Oswego will build four new pickleball courts at Fort Ontario State Historic Site with a $179,250 state grant. The project, expected to finish by year-end, aims to meet rising demand. The city also plans a second phase to add restrooms and picnic space, pending additional funding.
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