Blackwell Park Pickleball Court Project: The Raritan Township Committee has approved plans to build a pickleball court and a dog park in Blackwell Park. The decision comes after more than a year of planning, and leaders say most of the money will come from the township’s Open Space Fund.
Long Planning Process
The idea to build pickleball courts was first suggested in 2022. Committeewoman Robyn Fatooh said it has taken much longer than expected to get everything ready.
“It is taking an inordinate amount of time to apply for grants, to get the cost bids, and I understand how municipal works, but I do think it’s time,” Robyn Fatooh said.
Costs and Funding
The dog park will cost about $15,000, while the pickleball court is expected to cost around $209,000. Robyn Fatooh explained that grant money has helped, but it was not enough to cover everything.
The total price increased because the township chose not to build over the current basketball court.
Township Administrator Karen Gilbert said they will know the exact cost after the engineering work is done. She also said she does not know if the project will be finished this year.
Community Benefits
Committee members believe the new features will be a great addition for residents.
“The community deserves these amenities,” said committee member Scott Sipos. “We started this push last year to provide amenities at our parks. I think they deserve to see these things come back to them.”
Once complete, the courts and dog park will belong to the Raritan Township School District. However, they will be open for the entire community to enjoy.
Residents have shared that they are excited to have new places to play and gather without needing to leave town.
News in Brief: Blackwell Park Pickleball Court Project
Raritan Township will build a pickleball court and dog park in Blackwell Park. The project costs about $224,000 and will be funded mostly by the township’s Open Space Fund. Leaders say the improvements will give residents more options for recreation and community activities.
ALSO READ: Village of Dane Unveils Game-Changing Pickleball Courts—A New Era for Capitol Valley Park