Northeast Park Pickleball Courts: City officials, local leaders, and residents gathered on Wednesday at Northeast Park in Meridian, Mississippi, to celebrate the groundbreaking for new public pickleball courts. These will be the first courts built on the east side of town, aimed at promoting outdoor recreation and community engagement.
The event marked a major step forward after two years of planning. Thomas Adams, Director of Parks and Recreation, said the idea first came from local pickleball players.
“And from that day forward, I said, ‘This has to happen. This has to happen,” said Thomas Adams.
City and County Support for Recreation
Meridian has previously turned tennis courts at the Sammie Davidson Complex into pickleball courts. However, the new Northeast Park site will give residents on the east side more access.
“This is definitely something the community needs,” said Thomas Adams. “And we are in the business of recreation, so we wanted to provide an opportunity for the community to be able to recreate and recreate in a good facility.”
J.J. Anders, Lauderdale County Supervisor for District 1, which includes Northeast Park, said the courts are a good step for promoting an active lifestyle.
“I know I don’t look like it, but I love playing tennis, and it’s a lifelong sport just like pickleball,” said J.J. Anders. “So anything we can do to promote getting outside and being active and quality of life, not only in Lauderdale County but especially in District 1, I’m all behind.”
A Win for Pickleball Players
Beth Barham, President of the Meridian Pickleball Association, thanked the city for continuing to support the sport.
“We just appreciate your hard work,” said Beth Barham.
Pickleball players can already see the cleared ground, but Thomas Adams said they will need to wait a bit longer. The design plans are nearly ready and will soon go out for bids.
“It is in the works,” said Thomas Adams. “It may look like no progress is being made, but the project is moving forward, and the courts will be built.”
News in Brief: Northeast Park Pickleball Courts
Meridian officials broke ground on June 18 at Northeast Park for new public pickleball courts. The project is the first on the city’s east side. Parks and Recreation Director Thomas Adams says bidding will begin soon, and city and county leaders say the courts will boost recreation and active living.