Neighborhood Pickleball LLC has proposed building three pickleball courts on the roof of a parking garage at 2061 Allston Way in Downtown Berkeley. Founder Jim Jenkins is seeking a use permit for the project, which aims to offer more space for the fast-growing sport in a city with limited open land.
A Creative Use of Empty Rooftops
Jim Jenkins plans to turn the sixth floor of the garage into a play area for pickleball. The idea came from a trip he took to Austin, Texas in 2024, where he played at a rooftop pickleball center. Inspired by that space, Jenkins wants to bring a similar community feel to Berkeley.
“It was the first time I went to one where it felt like being at the neighborhood park because it had such a strong community and social vibe.” – (Jim Jenkins)
Jenkins started playing pickleball during the pandemic. As the sport became more popular, finding court space became harder, and noise complaints led some cities to limit playing hours.
Support from Local Leaders
John Caner, CEO of the Downtown Berkeley Association, supports the rooftop court idea.
“Berkeley is pretty land-constrained for activities of this type. So creative use of rooftops for activities is a positive thing in a dense urban area.” – (Jim Jenkins)
The parking garage rooftop is seen as a good fit since many garages in the area have been underused since the pandemic began.
Addressing Noise and Traffic Concerns
The proposed courts are near businesses, hotels, schools, and the Downtown Berkeley YMCA. This has raised concerns about possible noise. However, Jim Jenkins said he measured sound levels and believes the courts will not be louder than usual city noise.
“I’ve played some music at 85 decibels, so much louder than pickleball could ever be,And if you go down on the street, you can’t even hear it.” – (Jim Jenkins)
The courts would only allow up to 12 players at a time. Jenkins also noted that five floors of parking below the courts would help prevent traffic problems.
What Happens Next
Jim Jenkins submitted the permit request two months ago. He said the city’s approval process could take four to six months. If approved, the courts would be ready to use shortly after.
“I’m hoping that people just walk over and play, I’ve been approached by a handful of people that have said they play pickleball and they’re really excited to see pickleball so close by.” – (Jim Jenkins)
The courts aim to bring people together, offer a new use for underused space, and support the growing demand for pickleball.
News in Brief: Neighborhood Pickleball LLC
Neighborhood Pickleball LLC has proposed building rooftop courts in Downtown Berkeley. The plan aims to meet growing pickleball demand while addressing space limits. Supporters see benefits in community and activity access. Noise and traffic concerns have been studied. The project could be ready in a few months after city approval.