Roseburg’s Pickleball Court Renovation Project: Roseburg’s outdoor tennis and pickleball courts at Stewart Park closed on Tuesday, May 20, for a major $2.5 million renovation. The update will bring new courts, lights, fencing, and seating, helping boost play and tournaments for youth and adults across the region by fall.
A Major Project for Roseburg
The courts are being rebuilt with eight new tennis courts, 10 dedicated pickleball courts, new LED lighting, fencing, seating, a fresh entryway, and a modern security system. Work is expected to wrap up by Friday, October 3, though dates may shift.
This effort is funded by a $750,000 state grant from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, $523,000 in City money, and $1.1 million raised by the non-profit Umpqua Valley Tennis Center.
Roseburg Parks and Recreation Program Manager Velorie “Val” Ligon secured the grant, one of the largest ever received by the department. The grant came through the Local Government Grant Program, which is supported by the Oregon State Lottery.
Long-Needed Upgrades
The courts have served the city since 1959 and have long been home to Roseburg High School’s tennis team. Over the years, cracks up to three inches deep have been patched many times, and puddles often form after rain.
“They’ve been really well-taken care of – that’s why they’ve lasted as long as they have. The outdoor courts have way outlived their useful life.” – (Ligon)
Roseburg Public Works Director Ryan Herinckx agreed.
“It’s really been a long-needed project for the youth, as well as the adults. This project wouldn’t have happened without the tennis center’s fundraising efforts.” – (Ryan Herinckx)
Affordable Play for All
The new courts will still be low-cost. Adults will pay only $2 per day for unlimited play, and youth 18 and under will continue to play free, according to the City.
“Pickleball is considered the fastest-growing sport in the United States.” – (Ryan Herinckx)
Roseburg City Manager Nikki Messenger added,
“I would like to thank and recognize the Umpqua Valley Tennis Center for their partnership and stewardship of these popular facilities. We look forward to the renovations and serving people of all ages with the improved courts.” – (Nikki Messenger)
A Facility with Deep Roots
The Stewart Park courts first opened with six courts in 1959. More courts, fencing, lights, and drinking fountains were added in the 1960s and 1970s through a mix of federal and City funds.
In 1989, the community raised $1.6 million to build indoor courts and add locker rooms, a pro shop, and offices. Today, the Umpqua Valley Tennis Center works with local schools and non-profits to run youth programs and community events.
The updated outdoor courts will include premium Plexipave surfaces that let water drain better, black vinyl fencing, energy-saving LED lights, a hitting wall, new nets, and seating. A drinking fountain will also be added.
“Everything within the current footprint will be new. It’s very exciting to get to be a part of this.” – (ligon)
Looking Ahead
Local non-profits are removing old items from the courts to reuse or sell. A Roseburg company, i.e. Engineering, designed the project and is helping manage it. JRT Construction of Oakland is handling the build. Demolition will resume on Monday, June 9, followed by full construction.
Tennis and pickleball tournaments are already on the calendar for spring. The community is looking forward to playing on safe, modern courts that will welcome players of all ages for many more decades.
News in Brief: Roseburg’s Pickleball Court Renovation Project
Roseburg closed its outdoor tennis and pickleball courts on May 20 for a $2.5 million update. The project adds new courts, lighting, seating, and fencing by October 3. Funded by the City, a state grant, and local donations, it will boost youth and adult play and future tournaments.
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