Spring Lake Heights Expands Pickleball Scene: Spring Lake Heights officials have approved the installation of three new pickleball courts at Joseph E. Robertson Park, despite concerns from some residents. After months of debate, the Borough Council voted 3-1 to move forward with the project, which a $100,000 county grant will partly fund.
The courts will be built between the playground and the Little League field. The decision follows discussions about whether the courts should replace an aging playground or be placed in the grove near the baseball field. The project is expected to be completed by summer 2025, though an exact timeline has not been confirmed.
Community Debate Over Pickleball Expansion
During the recent council meeting, officials discussed the agenda item titled “Joseph E. Robertson Park – Pickleball Court Install” before awarding the installation contract to ATT Sports Inc. Councilman Capristo outlined the location options and defended the decision, stating,
“We see the same demand in Spring Lake Heights as we do across the country and in our neighboring towns.” – (Capristo)
Councilwoman King questioned whether three courts were necessary, pointing to nearby towns for comparison.
“We have 2. Spring Lake has 6. Sea Girt has 3 combination courts. Belmar has 3 and is requesting 3 more. Manasquan has 10 and is seeking a grant for additional courts.” – (king)
She also expressed frustration that other park projects, like walkways, had not been prioritized. Some residents at the meeting raised concerns about noise and whether pickleball fits the park’s intended use. King echoed these worries, saying,
“I have a real problem here because it feels like we’re not listening to our residents. The noise alone.” – (king)
The town engineer responded that all grants are publicly advertised and hearings were held for community input.
“People often don’t attend those hearings, then return a year later with concerns after the opportunity for input has passed.” – (king)
Differing Views on Pickleball’s Impact
King pushed back, arguing,
“In this very chamber back in October, people were told there would be more discussion—because so many were upset. I can’t support this. Just because we received a grant doesn’t mean we have to use it.” – (king)
She also questioned the town’s choice of contractor, claiming the company lacked relevant experience. The town engineer quickly refuted this, explaining that ATT Sports Inc. has built nearly every tennis and pickleball court in Monmouth County.
King argued that the park is meant for passive recreation, adding, “The people who live near it have been clear about that.” The park currently includes baseball, softball, and tennis facilities and previously had pickleball courts until August 2024.
“I’d argue the courts enhance quality of life. I’ve never heard of pickleball being a burden on a facility or a town.” – (Capristo)
Councilman Casagrande emphasized the sport’s popularity, saying,
“The demand for pickleball is insatiable. I live near Ocean Road, and that court is used constantly. I may not have decibel studies, but I’m there daily and haven’t found it to be an issue.” – (Casagrande)
Council’s Final Decision
Capristo pointed out that pickleball had already been played in the park for years and that the town was simply restoring lost courts.
“Let’s remember, it’s been played here for years. We’re not suddenly introducing it.” – (Capristo)
He also noted that the new location would be deeper in the park, which could help minimize noise for nearby homes. Despite the ongoing concerns, the council ultimately voted in favor of awarding the contract and proceeding with the project. While a construction timeline has not yet been confirmed, the pickleball courts are expected to be ready for use by summer 2025.
News in Brief: Spring Lake Heights Expands Pickleball Scene
Spring Lake Heights has approved a plan to build three new pickleball courts at Joseph E. Robertson Park, with completion expected by summer 2025. The decision, made in a 3-1 council vote, follows months of debate over noise concerns and park use. The project will be partially funded by a $100,000 grant.
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