Pitsenbarger Park’s Pickleball Court Upgrade: Pitsenbarger Park in Piqua, Ohio, will soon have eight new pickleball courts. The Piqua City Commission recently approved an agreement with Gamechanger Athletics LLC for the design and construction of the courts. The total cost of the project is $394,740, funded entirely through local sources.
Old Tennis Courts to Be Removed
The plan includes tearing down four existing tennis courts at the park’s sports complex. The new pickleball courts will be built in their place. Bob Graeser, facilities manager for the city of Piqua, explained the reason behind the project.
“We had a public meeting, and we got a lot of input from local pickleball players, and consensus is that everyone enjoys pickleball much more than tennis.” – (Graeser)
“It’s a growing sport (and) we found that it’s going to get better outcomes for us to put in pickleball courts than tennis courts.” – (Graeser)
Community Input Helped Shape the Plan
Graeser said the city wants to keep players in Piqua.
“We would like to use our facilities to keep people here in Piqua playing pickleball.” – (Graeser)
Local resident Mark Johnson, a member of the Miami County Pickleball Association, shared his excitement.
“My wife bought me, as a retirement gift, a pickleball paddle, and I’ve been playing ever since, and I absolutely love the game.” – (Mark Johnson)
He also thanked city staff for working with the group.
“Amy and the parks department listened to us and made changes, and a week ago, offered us a chance to review the latest blueprint on the finished site and would look like. In my opinion, when this project is completed, the city of Piqua will have the nicest courts in Miami County.” – (Mark Johnson)
Durable Surface and Possible Future Upgrades
The new courts will have a concrete base and be finished with acrylic paint. This surface was chosen to reduce the chance of cracks.
“There are different surfaces available, and this is the best that was determined from our public meeting, and also with our parks board.” – (Bob Graeser)
There are no lights or water features planned yet, but Graeser said those may be added in the future if the budget allows.
A Win for Local Pickleball Players
The construction of the new courts marks a big step forward for sports and recreation in Piqua. With the growing popularity of pickleball, the courts are expected to bring more players to the area. The project also highlights the city’s efforts to listen to residents and improve public spaces based on local needs.
News in Brief: Pitsenbarger Park’s Pickleball Court Upgrade
Pitsenbarger Park in Piqua will get eight new pickleball courts. The city approved a $394,740 plan to replace four tennis courts. The project, shaped by public input, will use local funds. Mark Johnson praised the plans and city staff. The surface will be concrete and acrylic for durability.
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