Pickleball Courts at Tom Watson Park: Boulder Parks and Recreation (BPR) is set to expand Tom Watson Park with the addition of eight pickleball courts and four new tennis courts. The project, now in the design phase, is expected to be completed by the end of 2025 as part of the city’s long-term strategy to improve racket sports facilities.
Addressing the Demand for Pickleball and Tennis
With pickleball’s popularity soaring, BPR is investing in new courts to accommodate the growing number of players. The planned facility, located on North 63rd Street across from Coot Lake, is part of the Boulder Tennis and Pickleball Court System Plan, which aims to provide dedicated courts across the city.
The project is backed by a $2.4 million investment strategy, with $400,000 allocated annually over the next six years. The plan includes 22 new pickleball courts and 22 new tennis courts citywide.
Site History and Strategic Planning
Tom Watson Park was originally part of IBM’s manufacturing site built in the 1960s and became city property in 1997. The location was chosen for its ability to accommodate new courts with minimal impact on residents.
The recent loss of 15 tennis courts at Millennium Harvest House Hotel for student housing has reduced playing options. A private tennis facility proposal in Gunbarrel was also abandoned due to community opposition. The Tom Watson Park expansion helps address the shortage of courts.
Additional Park Enhancements and Community Support
Other planned improvements at the park include restrooms, a shade shelter, a food court, a play area, improved walkways, and resurfaced parking. These upgrades depend on final funding confirmation.
The city is also exploring year-round play options, such as a potential indoor facility at East Boulder Community Park in 2025. Developments will align with the City of Boulder’s Community Sustainability, Equity, and Resilience Framework.
Community involvement is crucial for enhancing the park. The PLAY Boulder Foundation is supporting the project and seeking public donations for benches, picnic tables, and drinking fountains. They envision the courts as a “state-of-the-art public pickleball facility.”
Project Timeline and Future Developments
BPR is working with consultants to finalize court layouts and programming. Officials are also considering maintenance improvements and reservation systems. The courts are expected to be completed by late 2025, providing Boulder’s growing pickleball and tennis communities with much-needed space to play.
News in Brief: Pickleball Courts at Tom Watson Park
Boulder will add eight pickleball courts and four tennis courts to Tom Watson Park, set for completion by late 2025. The project is part of a $2.4 million investment to expand racket sports facilities. Additional upgrades include restrooms, a shade shelter, and a food court, pending final funding approval.
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