Willow Park Pickleball Courts: Pickleball players in Bennington could soon have access to six new dedicated courts at Willow Park, as the Select Board unanimously approved a grant application on Monday to fund the project.
With pickleball’s rapid growth and an impressive turnout of local supporters, the town is seeking $154,799 in grant funding from the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation.
The grant would cover half of the estimated $309,598 project cost, with the remainder coming from in-kind work by the town’s highway and buildings departments and the town’s Pennies for Parks fund. If awarded, construction on the courts would begin in the summer of 2026.
Expanding Pickleball Access in Bennington
Pickleball has grown rapidly in Bennington over the past decade. Jerry Wall, leader of the Bennington Pickleball Club and district ambassador for Southern Vermont for USA Pickleball, recalled how local play started in May 2015 with a taped-out court at Mount Anthony Union High School.
Since then, club membership has surpassed 100 active players for the past three years, mirroring national trends.
“This is just like what was happening all over the country. Pickleball has been the fastest growing sport in America over the past four consecutive years.” – (Jerry Wall)
Currently, two temporary courts exist at Willow Park, but the new project would expand the facility to six permanent courts. The location, which previously housed a now-dismantled skate park, offers space for lighting, fencing, and seating.
A Sport That Builds Community and Boosts the Economy
Local players at the Select Board meeting emphasized pickleball’s social and economic benefits.
“Playing at courts around New England, I found the same sense of community, which was unlike any sport I had ever played before.” – (Jerry Wall)
Bennington Pickleball Club member Jon Wittenbecher of Pownal highlighted the economic impact of the new courts.
“When people come here for these nice courts, they will be spending money in the community.” – (Wittenbecher)
Bill Knight, a player in his late 70s, showed the health benefits of the sport, especially for older adults. “I think pickleball extends your athletic life,” said Knight, who transitioned to pickleball after playing racquetball for years.
Town Officials Show Enthusiasm for Pickleball
While some Select Board members admitted they were new to the sport, they expressed enthusiasm for the project. Board member Clark Adams remarked,
“It is a great thing; I wasn’t aware that it was a rage out there. I guess I’ll have to join in to see what is so cool.” – (Clark Adams)
Vice Chair Ed Woods acknowledged persistent encouragement from a neighbor and pickleball player, Gary Corey.
“and I have been getting some pressure from a neighbor of mine, whose name happens to be Gary Corey; so Gary, if you are watching at home tonight, I accept the invitation.” – (Ed Woods)
“This is terrific for Bennington.” – (Ed Woods)
What’s Next?
The town will now submit the grant application, with a decision expected later this year. If funding is secured, construction would begin in summer 2026, creating one of the region’s best pickleball facilities.
News in Brief: Willow Park Pickleball Courts
Bennington’s Select Board approved a grant application to fund six new pickleball courts at Willow Park. If the $154,799 grant is awarded, the $309,598 project will be completed by summer 2026. Supporters emphasize the sport’s community-building, health benefits, and economic impact.
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