Haskins Road’s Pickleball Court Upgrade: The Bowling Green Board of Zoning Appeals has approved a special rule to allow a taller fence for new pickleball courts near Haskins Road. The city is now allowed to build an 8-foot fence instead of the usual 4-foot maximum for front yards. This will help stop balls from rolling onto the road and improve safety for both drivers and players. The courts are being built next to the Bowling Green Community Center and are expected to open by early July.
Fence Approved to Keep Balls Off the Road
The taller fence was recommended by the project designer. Outdoor pickleball courts in Perrysburg and Oregon already have 8-foot fences. The same kind of height approval was also given for nearby athletic fields almost 10 years ago.
Kristin Otley, who is the director of the Bowling Green Parks and Recreation Department, said this has been a long process.
“The project is the result of three years of coordination with the local pickleball advisory group.” – (Kristin Otley)
She explained the taller fence was a standard design choice and would help players and passing cars.
New Courts Almost Ready for Summer Use
The winning construction bid came from Geddis Paving and Excavation, based in Toledo. Their price for the full project was $640,000. Work on the eight new outdoor courts is already underway. City officials say the courts should be done by the end of June, to open near July 4.
The new courts will include lighting, a shelter house, places to sit, and fencing all around. The outdoor setup will let players enjoy games during the day when the weather is warm. This will be a big improvement for Bowling Green residents.
Pickleball Players Finally Get Outdoor Courts
Right now, people in Bowling Green have to drive to Perrysburg, Holland, or Findlay to find outdoor pickleball courts. The only current courts are inside the community center, where space is limited and shared with other programs like youth sports, fitness classes, and even National Guard training.
That’s why in 2022, local players asked the city for outdoor courts. The city helped start the project by giving $150,000 from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The Bowling Green Parks and Recreation Foundation also stepped up, helping raise more than $100,000 with help from local fans of the sport.
Easy to Play, Fun to Learn
Pickleball is a game that doesn’t need a lot of space. Four pickleball courts can fit on one tennis court. Games are short, usually lasting 10 to 15 minutes. People don’t have to be very fit or skilled to enjoy playing. That makes it popular with all ages.
Kristin Otley said 30 to 40 people already play every weekday morning from 8 to 11 a.m. on the indoor courts. Many believe the new outdoor courts will attract even more players.
What This Means for the Community
The zoning change and new outdoor courts will make it easier and safer for people in Bowling Green to play pickleball. The courts will give players their own space and reduce the need to travel to other cities. With extra features like lighting and shelter, the site is set to become a local favorite for sports and fun.
News in Brief: Haskins Road’s Pickleball Court Upgrade
Bowling Green has approved an 8-foot fence for new pickleball courts on Haskins Road. The taller fence will prevent balls from entering traffic. The $640,000 project includes eight courts, lighting, and a shelter. Courts are set to open near July 4, giving locals safe, outdoor play space.
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