The Greater Huntington Parks and Recreation Board has approved plans to turn two tennis courts at Ritter Park in Huntington into permanent pickleball courts. The decision was made on Wednesday to meet rising demand for pickleball and improve the playing experience for local athletes.
The project will replace tennis courts three and four with dedicated pickleball courts. Kathy McKenna, executive director of the Greater Huntington Parks and Recreation District, said that pickleball players have already donated nearly $30,000 toward the project’s cost.
Funding and Community Support
The conversion will cost more than $49,000, and the measure allows a contract with Vasco Sports Contractors to handle the work. If donations fall short of covering the full cost, the park district plans to pay the remaining amount.
Alan Morrison, president of the Greater Huntington Parks and Recreation District Board of Commissioners, explained why the project matters.
“Pickleball players really don’t want to play on a court that’s got temporary lines on it, as well as tennis players really don’t like playing on tennis courts that have pickleball lines on them. Although it’s workable, it’s not ideal,”. “The pickleball community spoke with their pocketbook. They’ve raised the money to do most of it. We still need more money, but we’re going to do it, and it’s just the right thing to do for our community.”(Alan Morrison)
Growing Popularity of Pickleball
Pickleball has become extremely popular across the country. Kathy McKenna said, “Pickleball’s taken over the country, taken over the world, I guess you could say. It’s exploded.”
Construction Timeline
Construction is expected to start by late summer or early fall, according to Kathy McKenna. The new courts will help meet the needs of the growing number of players who want better facilities.
Impact on the Community
This project shows the strong support from the pickleball community and the park district’s commitment to improving recreation spaces. Once completed, the courts will give players a dedicated area free from shared lines, making games more enjoyable.
News in Brief: Ritter Park Pickleball Court Upgrade
Huntington’s Ritter Park will convert two tennis courts into permanent pickleball courts. The $49,000 project is backed by nearly $30,000 in donations. Work should start by late summer or early fall. Leaders say the upgrade will better serve both tennis and pickleball players.
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