Pickleball Courts Demand Poncha Springs: A strong call for dedicated pickleball courts took center stage at the April 10 open house in Poncha Springs, Colorado, where about 100 residents gathered to give feedback on the town’s updated parks master plan. Attendees emphasized the need for more pickleball facilities, as the sport continues to grow rapidly in popularity across the region.
Pickleball Courts Highlighted in First Concept
The open house featured two concept designs presented by KLJ Engineering and Town Administrator Lance Hostetter, developed from feedback collected in a November 2023 session and online surveys.
In Concept 1, the proposal included three tennis courts, which could easily be replaced with up to 10 dedicated pickleball courts, according to Jonathan Tarr of KLJ.
“There’s a big demand for pickleball,” Tarr explained, noting that many people asked for more space to play and host tournaments.
Other highlights in this concept included:
-
A pond with rental paddle boats
-
A gazebo
-
Dual-end parking
-
Space for a future indoor facility
Courts Missing from Second Concept Raise Concerns
While Concept 2 included a covered ice rink, it did not include any outdoor courts. Tarr clarified that indoor courts could still be worked into the design. This sparked concern among many attendees, especially pickleball players. John Vandewalle voiced frustration:
“Not including pickleball courts in the master plan would be ‘asinine.’” – (John Vandewalle)
The absence of clear plans for pickleball in Concept 2 was a key sticking point for multiple community members.
Public Feedback Emphasizes Pickleball’s Importance
Pickleball supporters weren’t alone in speaking up. The overall feedback also included requests for:
-
A special events space
-
Water recreation areas
-
Sports fields
-
Connected trails for walking and biking
But pickleball consistently stood out as a top priority. Chandler Benore, a longtime racket sports advocate, previously noted the region’s lack of indoor facilities despite growing interest. That need was echoed again in Poncha.
Wind, Library, and Other Community Needs
In addition to courts, residents discussed broader issues. Sheena Thatcher asked about including a library in the plan. Hostetter responded that the town is talking with Salida Regional Library about a partnership.
Erica DeVoy raised concerns about strong winds affecting field play. Tarr assured that field placement considered wind patterns, and additional wind-shielding could be added.
Hostetter reminded attendees that these were early concept designs, and community input could shape the final version.
Long-Term Plan, Big Price Tag
The project is planned to roll out in four phases over 20 years, with the final phase expected in 11–20 years. Hostetter estimated the total cost at around $75 million, depending on which version of the master plan is adopted.
“We’re trying to develop this for the whole community, not for any specific group or person. It needs to be utilized by everyone.” – (Hostetter)
A Growing Pickleball Community Looks to the Future
The open house showed that pickleball is more than just a passing trend in Poncha Springs—it’s a growing need. As more residents pick up paddles and seek places to play, ensuring space for outdoor and potential indoor courts will be crucial.
The town’s planners now face the task of balancing desires for ice sports, green space, and community events, while not overlooking pickleball’s clear demand.
News in Brief: Pickleball Courts Demand Poncha Springs
Pickleball took center stage at Poncha Springs’ April 10 parks master plan meeting. Residents pushed hard for more courts, asking that pickleball not be left out of the 30-acre development. One concept includes up to 10 courts, but the other lacks any. Final plans remain open to community input.
ALSO READ: Central Park’s New Pickleball Craze: 14 Pickleball Courts Opened