Pickleball Expansion in Hadley: The Hadley Select Board and School Committee have approved the use of land next to Hopkins Academy for a new outdoor recreation center, which could include four pickleball courts and a full-size basketball court. The project, led by the Hadley Park and Recreation Department, is now in the early planning stages.
Community Demand for Pickleball Courts
The new facility would provide a dedicated space for pickleball, a fast-growing sport that has gained popularity among all age groups. Currently, 40 to 70 players participate in Monday night pickleball games at Hadley Elementary School’s gym, highlighting the need for additional courts.
Park and Recreation Committee Chairman Jim Shea expressed enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its benefits for seniors and children.
“I think this would be a great use of this space for both seniors (and children). The pickleball craze has really hit everywhere around here.” – (Jim Shea)
Cost Estimates and Construction Plans
The estimated cost for the project is $323,630, which covers a Sport Court tile playing surface, fencing, and other necessary improvements. Park and Recreation Director Amy Jennings noted that planning would move forward alongside the Hopkins Academy geothermal project to avoid conflicts.
“We hope to have the project move as quickly as possible, working alongside and with the School Committee, and to have the people of Hadley have a beautiful recreation center outdoors to enjoy in the future.” – (Amy Jennings)
“This is something we’re trying to do to reach the older kids, and then the adults and seniors.” – (Jim Shea)
The facility could also serve Hopkins Academy’s physical education classes. Additionally, there is a possibility of installing an ice-skating rink for winter use, though Shea clarified that hockey would not be encouraged.
“We could potentially use this for four seasons.” – (Jim Shea)
Site Visits and Key Features
To ensure high-quality design, Jennings and the committee visited pickleball courts at Buttery Brook Park in South Hadley and Nonotuck Park in Easthampton. They also examined ongoing construction at Ray Ellerbrook Field in Northampton.
The project budget includes solar-powered lights for evening play, with a potential electrical connection from the nearby Russell School gazebo.
Concerns Over Access for Residents
While the project has received strong support, Select Board member Randy Izer raised concerns about non-residents using the courts.
“I’m just concerned we get overrun with nonresidents and then the residents are upset we spent all this money, and we can’t use it.” – (Randy Izer)
Shea acknowledged the concern but pointed out that Hadley residents already travel elsewhere to play pickleball.
“There’s a traveling league of people.” – (Jim Shea)
What’s Next?
With the land use approvals secured, the Hadley Pickleball & Recreation Center now moves into the funding and planning phase. The next steps involve seeking funding from the Community Preservation Act Committee and finalizing project details.
News in Brief: Pickleball Expansion in Hadley
Hadley officials approved a plan to build four outdoor pickleball courts and a basketball court near Hopkins Academy. The project, estimated to cost $323,630, aims to meet the growing demand for pickleball. Funding is still needed, but officials hope to move forward quickly with construction.
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