Golden Hills Board Advances Pickleball Courts: Nine months after giving the green light to a master plan for its nature park, the Golden Hills Community Services District Board of Directors is set to bring new life to an old concrete foundation. In an unanimous decision on July 18, the board approved the removal of an outdated metal building, paving the way for the construction of pickleball and basketball courts.
A New Chapter for Golden Hills
The building in question, a relic from the park’s days as a golf course, had served as a maintenance shop. Beneath it lies a concrete foundation that will be repurposed for the new courts. The removal, to be carried out by MAG Engineering at no cost to the district, represents the first step toward expanding recreational options for Golden Hills residents.
“We’ve been talking about this for a long time, and now it’s time to act,” said Director John Buckley, who, along with Director Joe King, has been instrumental in the Nature Park Activities Priority ad hoc committee. The committee has been deliberating the park’s future for several months, focusing on providing more activities for the community without incurring debt.
The Vision of the Master Plan
The master plan, discussed extensively in board meetings last year, is an adaptive blueprint for the park’s development over the next 15 years. Phase 3 of the plan called for the removal of abandoned structures, a goal now in progress with the impending demolition of the old maintenance shop.
General Manager Chris Carlson emphasized the importance of this adaptive approach. “The master plan is designed to evolve with our community’s needs. This opportunity to demolish the building for free is a crucial first step in enhancing our recreational offerings,” Carlson said.
A Collaborative Effort
The building’s location, just south of Tom Sawyer Lake, positions it well for the planned recreational upgrades. While the district will need to make some access improvements and develop the courts, reusing the existing concrete pad will significantly reduce costs. This efficient use of resources underscores the board’s commitment to responsible and sustainable development.
In addition to the progress on the nature park, the board meeting featured a report from Corey Costelloe, Assistant City Manager of Tehachapi, on local recreation facilities and programs. Costelloe’s insights initially shared at a Tehachapi City Council meeting in June, highlighted the collaborative spirit between the city and the Tehachapi Valley Recreation and Park District (TVRPD).
Corey Torres, Tehachapi Valley Recreation and Park District (TVRPD) manager, also addressed the board, discussing the synergy between the district and the city. “We want to continue to push the boundaries,” Torres said. He noted that while Tehachapi Valley Recreation and Park District (TVRPD) excels in programming events, it faces limitations due to a lack of facilities. The recent development of new pickleball courts at the police station and a soccer facility at Valley Park exemplifies the city’s proactive approach, with Tehachapi Valley Recreation and Park District (TVRPD) providing essential support.
The Golden Hills board expressed enthusiasm for these collaborative efforts and the potential for further partnerships. Board President David Benham, inspired by Costelloe’s presentation, is eager to see tangible results. “Let’s quit talking about it and make something happen,” he urged.
As the demolition of the old building proceeds this fall, Golden Hills residents can look forward to a revitalized nature park, offering new recreational opportunities without the burden of debt. This project is more than just a development; it’s a testament to the community’s commitment to enhancing quality of life through thoughtful, sustainable improvements.
The transformation of Golden Hills Nature Park is a promising step toward a more active and connected community, reflecting the board’s dedication to turning plans into action. As Dr. Ryan Golden’s observations about pickleball injuries remind us, the sport’s growing popularity comes with challenges. However, with proper planning and community involvement, the benefits far outweigh the risks.
News in Brief: Golden Hills Board Advances Pickleball Courts
The Golden Hills Community Services District Board approved the removal of an outdated metal building on July 18 to make way for new pickleball and basketball courts at Golden Hills Nature Park. This marks a significant step in the 150-acre park’s master plan. The building’s demolition, to be handled by MAG Engineering at no cost, will repurpose its concrete foundation for the new courts, enhancing recreational options without incurring debt.
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