Pickleball Expansion in Elmwood Park as the village prepares to build its first outdoor courts with the help of a $376,250 Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant from the state of Illinois. The grant will cover half of the estimated $752,500 cost to construct four new pickleball courts at Village Circle, next to the Aquatic Center at 2 Conti Parkway.
Currently, pickleball is only available indoors at the Community and Recreation Center, where demand for court time has surged.
“The indoor program is very popular,” said Village Manager Paul Volpe. “The gym is always packed with people playing, and it’s common to see people waiting to get on the courts.”
The new outdoor courts will provide dedicated space for players to enjoy open play, leagues, and tournaments, bringing a fresh pickleball experience to the growing community.
Construction Timeline and Court Features
- Location: Next to the Aquatic Center, 2 Conti Parkway, Elmwood Park
- Number of Courts: Four dedicated outdoor pickleball courts
- Surface: Outdoor, tournament-quality courts
- Estimated Completion: Spring 2026
- Construction Start Date: After the Aquatic Center closes for the season in Fall 2025
“Because the project impacts the pool area, we will wait until the pool closes,” Volpe said.
Elmwood Park’s Growing Pickleball Community
The demand for pickleball has skyrocketed in Elmwood Park, with indoor sessions regularly at capacity. The addition of outdoor courts will allow for:
- More playing time for residents
- Opportunities for beginner and advanced clinics
- The potential for local tournaments and leagues
Village officials see pickleball as a valuable recreational investment that aligns with Elmwood Park’s commitment to improving outdoor amenities.
“We continue to invest in our outdoor recreation opportunities because we know how important they are for the quality of life for our residents,” said Village President Angelo “Skip” Saviano.
More Than Just Pickleball
In addition to the pickleball courts, the OSLAD grant will also support:
- A new artificial turf area for sunbathing at the Aquatic Center
- A new playground for children and families
These improvements enhance Village Circle, which has undergone significant redevelopment over the last decade to create a vibrant community hub with restaurants, events, and modern recreational facilities.
Pickleball and Economic Growth
With pickleball’s explosive growth nationwide, having new, high-quality courts will not only provide a better playing experience for residents but also attract players from neighboring communities, increasing local engagement and economic activity.
News in Brief: Pickleball Expansion in Elmwood Park
Elmwood Park will build its first outdoor pickleball courts at Village Circle, funded by a $376,250 state grant. The four new courts will be built next to the Aquatic Center and are expected to be completed by spring 2026. The project expands Elmwood Park’s pickleball offerings, which currently take place indoors at the recreation center. Village officials hope the new courts will attract more players, leagues, and tournaments.
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