Pickleball Courts Coming to Bay View Park: Phase one of the Bay View Park improvement project in Alpena is set to begin soon, offering new sports amenities and revitalizing the park. The project includes the construction of tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts, along with enhanced lighting and other upgrades. The work is expected to be completed by July 1, 2025.
Project Overview
The first phase of the Bay View Park project will involve demolishing the current basketball and tennis courts. These will be replaced with new, regulation-size tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts, each with new surfaces. The park will also feature improved lighting, fencing around the tennis and pickleball areas, and windscreens. The total cost for phase one is estimated at $340,000, funded through local donations and a $100,000 grant from the Alpena Youth and Recreation Commission.
Increased Demand for Pickleball
The project was initiated due to the growing popularity of pickleball and the need for more courts in the area. Ron Fusina, a member of the Friends of the Alpena Courts group, explained that the park’s current courts are in disrepair. The tennis courts have cracks, and the basketball courts are outdated and not regulation-size. Fusina believes that the new complex will be a valuable addition to the community, accommodating both current players and newcomers to pickleball, basketball, and tennis.
Fundraising Campaign
To help fund the project, a Patronicity fundraising campaign is underway until May 3, 2025. The city aims to raise $50,000, which will be matched by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation if the goal is met. Any additional funds raised will be used to support phase two of the project, which includes constructing a pavilion. The project is set to continue through 2026.
Community Impact
The new Bay View Sports Complex is expected to be a source of pride for the community, encouraging both physical and social activities. Fusina emphasized the importance of the project in promoting an active lifestyle in Alpena. Additionally, the city is using grant funding to add a public restroom facility with a small pavilion at the park, expected to be completed this year.
News in Brief: Pickleball Courts Coming to Bay View Park
The Bay View Park improvement project in Alpena will begin soon, offering new tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts, along with enhanced lighting. The project is funded through donations and a grant, with a Patronicity campaign running until May 3, 2025, to raise additional funds for phase two.
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