Petaluma Fairgrounds Pickleball Courts: Petaluma Fairgrounds now offers three new covered pickleball courts, thanks to the work of local non-profit Petaluma Fairgrounds Pickleball, founded by Chad Lichty and Lisa Lichty. The temporary courts, located inside Bianchi’s Barn, opened in April and are available daily from dawn to dusk until May 30. They will reopen again after the Petaluma Fair ends in June.
The courts were added in partnership with the City of Petaluma as a pilot program to increase recreation options. The city noted in an April 29 bulletin that this setup isn’t a long-term fix but part of a broader plan to create more space for public activities.
Court Features and Costs
The courts were built using removable VersaCourt tiles made of hard plastic. These tiles create a level playing area without being permanent. According to Parks and Recreation Director Drew Halter, “concrete work was needed to provide a safe, flat, usable surface within the Bianchi Barn” before the court tiles were laid.
That concrete work cost about $43,000 and was paid using funds from current tenants at the fairgrounds. The courts’ design, shipping, and materials cost another $34,400. The nets and fencing were provided by Chad Lichty and Lisa Lichty through their non-profit, funded by grants and individual donations.
The city plans to continue working with the Lichtys after the Petaluma Fair, which takes place from June 19 to 22. The goal is to offer more classes and organized play in addition to free play.
Player Feedback on Court Surface
The court tiles allow for play in bad weather, but some players have noticed that the surface isn’t always even. “When I first saw the fairgrounds courts I was curious and impressed as they looked really nice,” said John Malanga, who plays pickleball two to three times a week at Lucchesi Park.
“The roof could be great on rainy days or if the sun is too hot.” – (John Malanga)
Still, Malanga said his first experience playing at the new courts wasn’t perfect. Another local player, Pedro Moura, also shared his opinion.
“I’ve been hooked on playing pickleball. I live walking distance from the fairgrounds and I was very excited for the usage of the space. It seemed like a win-win.” – (Pedro Moura)
But, he added, the ball didn’t bounce quite right when he used the courts.
What This Means for Petaluma
These temporary courts show how the city and community groups are working together to meet the rising demand for pickleball in Petaluma. While the current setup has some flaws, it gives people a place to play indoors and away from the weather. After the Petaluma Fair, there may be more chances to improve the courts and offer more organized activities for players of all levels.
News in Brief: Petaluma Fairgrounds Pickleball Courts
Petaluma Fairgrounds now has three new covered pickleball courts inside Bianchi’s Barn, created by the nonprofit Petaluma Fairgrounds Pickleball with city help. Though temporary, the courts offer play in all weather. Players enjoy the location, though some report uneven bounce. More programs are expected after June’s Petaluma Fair.
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