Magnuson Park Pickleball Courts: Seattle’s plan to build new pickleball courts at Magnuson Park is facing pushback from environmental groups and residents. The proposed courts, built near restored wetlands, have raised concerns about noise pollution and potential harm to wildlife. Opponents argue that the courts could disrupt one of the city’s largest freshwater habitats.
Pickleball Courts Proposed Near Sensitive Wetlands
Seattle Parks and Recreation plans to construct eight to ten lighted pickleball courts at the Children’s Hospital park-and-pool lot, located north of Northeast 65th Street. If additional funding becomes available, the city intends to expand the site to 25 courts. The project is expected to be completed by the end of next year.
The location is near a 30-acre restored wetland that serves as a key urban habitat, home to more than 100 native species. Some residents and conservation groups fear that pickleball’s loud, distinctive sound—reaching up to 120 decibels at courtside—could disturb the park’s tranquility and wildlife.
Environmental Groups Raise Concerns
Birds Connect Seattle, a local bird advocacy organization, has been vocal in its opposition to the plan. “Pickleball is famously noisy, and we are hoping the city finds a more suitable location that protects taxpayer investment and habitat,” said Joshua Morris, the urban conservation manager for the group.
The group warns that the noise from pickleball paddles striking balls could disrupt birds and other wildlife in the area. They argue that the city should prioritize conservation efforts over recreational expansion in such a sensitive habitat.
City Defends Pickleball Expansion
Seattle Parks and Recreation officials say that after years of research, Magnuson Park was identified as the best site for dedicated pickleball courts to meet the city’s growing demand. “Pickleball is booming in Seattle,” said Karen O’Connor, a spokesperson for the parks department, in an email to Axios.
Seattle has struggled to find suitable locations for new pickleball courts. A previous attempt to convert disused tennis courts in Lincoln Park into pickleball courts was scrapped after strong opposition from residents and conservationists. The city is now considering other locations, including the parking lot of the Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex and the Georgetown Playfield in West Seattle.
Private Investment in Pickleball Grows
While the city debates its next steps, private companies are investing heavily in pickleball. A 100,000-square-foot pickleball club is planned at the former Pepsi bottling plant in South Seattle. The facility, which will feature 26 courts, is expected to be the largest pickleball club in Washington state.
What’s Next for the Magnuson Park Courts?
Birds Connect Seattle is organizing a walk through the wetlands this Saturday to raise awareness about the potential impact of the proposed courts. The city, meanwhile, continues to assess alternative locations while balancing the needs of both conservation efforts and the growing popularity of pickleball.
News in Brief: Magnuson Park Pickleball Courts
Seattle’s plan to build new pickleball courts at Magnuson Park is facing opposition due to concerns about noise and wildlife disruption. Environmental groups argue that the courts could harm a key urban habitat, while city officials insist they are necessary to meet demand. The debate continues as alternative locations are considered.
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