Pickleball Expansion in Tucker: The City of Tucker is considering a $3.3 million proposal to build 12 pickleball courts behind its recreation center. The city council discussed the plan in a meeting on Monday night, where residents expressed support and concern over the potential impact of the project.
Mixed Reactions from the Community
During the meeting, some residents supported the idea, citing the need for better pickleball facilities. Roger Vogel, a Tucker resident and avid player, said,
“I’m for it. The courts we use now in the Tucker area really need improvement, and this facility would be fantastic.” – (Roger Vogel)
However, others worried about the cost, noise, and increased traffic. Cathy Shimkus, who lives near the recreation center, shared her concerns, saying,
“The cost, I could see going up. And the economy right now – I think our money is better spent possibly building a nest egg.” – (Cathy Shimkus)
City Officials Defend the Proposal
Tucker City Councilmember Roger Orlando (District 1) argued that the benefits outweigh the concerns. He referenced a noise study, saying,
“The noise study proved conclusive it should not bother the nearby residents, especially when there’s other noise-canceling things we could do.” – (Roger Orlando)
Orlando also noted that much of the proposed funding would go toward necessary upgrades, stating,
“So much of the money they’re complaining about would have to have been spent anyway on the rec center to modernize it, to add much-needed parking spaces and for storm-water control.” – (Roger Orlando)
He added that the city’s old courts generated $53,000 in revenue last year.
What Comes Next
The proposal is still in the early stages. The city council is expected to make a decision by late spring.
News in Brief: Pickleball Expansion in Tucker
Tucker is considering a $3.3 million project to build 12 pickleball courts. The city council discussed the proposal Monday night, with residents voicing support and concerns over cost and noise. Officials defended the plan, citing community benefits. A decision could be made by late spring.
ALSO READ: University of Alabama Approves 1.6M Dollars Pickleball Expansion at Parker-Haun