Noise-Reducing Pickleball Courts: Gates Tennis Center in Denver has introduced quiet pickleball courts using cushioned paddles to comply with the city’s noise ordinance. The facility, located at 3300 East Bayaud Avenue in Cherry Creek, made the change after discovering that noise levels at some courts slightly exceeded regulations. The goal is to maintain good relations with nearby residents while still providing an enjoyable pickleball experience.
Addressing Noise Concerns
Six courts at the north end of Gates Tennis Center, called the North Courts, are closest to homes. Residents raised concerns about pickleball noise, prompting the facility to conduct audio tests. Manager Sam Hitman stated that readings showed noise levels slightly above Denver’s ordinance, leading Gates to seek a solution.
“Absolutely no finger-pointing. We just want to be a good neighbor. We wanted to be proactive. …We’re just trying to really thread the needle on the solution of being good neighbors and also still providing pickleball to thousands of people in our community.” – (Hitman)
Denver has faced several pickleball-related noise issues since the sport increased in popularity. Noise complaints led to the closure of Congress Park pickleball courts and temporary restrictions at Mamie D. Eisenhower Park, where players were required to use foam balls. Gates Tennis Center wanted to avoid a similar fate.
Testing Solutions
To find the best way to reduce noise, Gates tested several quiet pickleball products. The Denver Department of Public Health and Environment confirmed that some products claiming to reduce noise were ineffective.
After extensive testing, three solutions proved successful: the Hush paddle with a cushioned surface, the Owl paddle with a felt cover approved for USA Pickleball events, and an adhesive paddle covering that can be removed as needed.
Gates opted to modify paddles rather than switching to foam balls, as staff found that foam balls negatively impacted gameplay. The facility invested around $5,000 in the new equipment.
Encouraging the Use of Quiet Equipment
Players can rent quiet paddles for free, thanks to a subsidy from the GTC Community Fund, a non-profit supporting the tennis center. Hitman hopes players will consider keeping a noise-reduction paddle for urban areas.
“We’re trying to raise awareness to players that it’s okay to have a backup paddle that’s your noise-reduction paddle,” Hitman explained. “That’s good for the sport long term.”
For players who prefer traditional paddles, Gates maintains 12 standard courts. “The real serious players, they want their paddle because they already invested time and money in their paddle, so we would just advise them [to] try your best to get the other twelve courts,” Hitman said. “It’s their right to not want to try these paddles, but the paddles are good paddles.”
Community and City Support
Denver Parks & Recreation is optimistic about the changes. “Sam runs a great facility and we work closely with him and the Park People to ensure we’re coming up with the best solution for all parties,” spokesperson Stephanie Figueroa stated.
The pickleball community has also embraced the initiative. The North Court Top Dog league, designed for high-level players using quiet paddles, sold out in just three days.
Gates expects the equipment to last through August before wear and tear require replacements. If additional sponsorships come through, the facility hopes to continue offering free rentals. Otherwise, small rental fees may be introduced to cover costs.
News in Brief: Noise-Reducing Pickleball Courts
Gates Tennis Center in Denver introduced quiet pickleball courts using cushioned paddles to comply with noise ordinances. The facility tested multiple products and invested $5,000 in quiet paddles. The initiative has received support from the city and players, with rentals currently free through the GTC Community Fund.
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