Valparaiso’s 10M Dollar Pickleball Boom: The Valparaiso Parks Department is investing $10 million to add new pickleball courts, part of a larger $25 million initiative to upgrade city parks. A groundbreaking ceremony will be held at ValPlayso Park on April 15 to celebrate the addition of six outdoor courts.
Growing Popularity of Pickleball
Kevin Nuppnau, director of the Valparaiso Parks Department, highlighted the rapid growth of pickleball, saying, “Pickleball is a rapidly growing sport.” The new courts, funded by the rePLAY initiative, aim to meet the increasing demand for pickleball facilities. This upgrade is part of a broader effort to enhance recreational amenities for the community.
Previous Developments and Future Plans
In recent years, the parks department has transformed old basketball and tennis courts into pickleball courts at Bicentennial Park, Tower Park, and Kirchhoff Park. The Valparaiso YMCA also added three indoor pickleball courts.
The new six outdoor courts at ValPlayso Park will provide more opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the sport. Nuppnau called the upgrade “highly anticipated” and emphasized the importance of community feedback in shaping the project.
Pickleball’s Rising Appeal
Pickleball, a sport similar to tennis but played with paddles and a plastic ball, has been gaining momentum. Jennifer Hall, co-owner of Pickle Time in Crown Point, explained the appeal of the sport, noting its low-impact nature and ability to be as competitive as players desire. “Once people start, they just want to keep playing it,” she said.
Regional Expansion of Pickleball
Other nearby areas are also embracing pickleball. Hammond recently opened 12 new indoor courts at the Jean Shepherd Community Center, and St. John will soon add outdoor courts. These developments reflect the region’s growing interest in pickleball.
The rePLAY Initiative’s Impact
Valparaiso Mayor Jon Costas praised the rePLAY initiative, which aims to improve parks citywide. “We’ve never lost sight of the timeless parks we grew up loving,” Costas said. The rePLAY initiative, funded by bond proceeds, will help ensure that the city’s parks remain vital community spaces for future generations.
News in Brief: Valparaiso’s 10M Dollar Pickleball Boom
Valparaiso Parks Department is investing $10 million to add six new outdoor pickleball courts at ValPlayso Park, part of a $25 million upgrade to city parks. The groundbreaking ceremony will take place on April 15. The move comes amid growing demand for pickleball facilities in the region.
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