Orland Park Delays Pickleball Expansion: Orland Park leaders are rethinking plans to build more pickleball courts at Doogan Park after several residents shared concerns and support at a recent Village Board committee meeting. The original proposal included eight new courts to add to the existing two, but changes are now being considered.
The park, located at 14700 Park Lane, was set to receive upgrades like new playgrounds, trails, pavilions, and improved sports fields. However, village officials said they may “descope” the plan, dropping the extra pickleball courts from the project. Some trustees suggested the village’s Sportsplex at 11351 West 159th Street might be a better spot for a large pickleball complex.
Mixed Opinions from Residents
Many residents attended the public meeting to share their thoughts. One supporter, Peggy Campbell, said, “Pickleball is a quickly growing sport,” and believed the original plan made sense. Another resident, who lives near the park and also plays pickleball, opposed the expansion and presented a petition against the additional courts.
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., with nearly 70,000 courts across the country. Orland Park has 22 courts available at public and private facilities, but supporters say even more are needed to keep up with demand.
Village Officials Weigh Options
Ray Piattoni, the village’s director of parks and recreation, said Orland Park is still aiming to create a dedicated pickleball complex at Doogan Park. But several trustees, including Cynthia Katsenes, questioned whether cutting the courts from the plan might affect a $600,000 state grant connected to the project.
“I would like to see this project go forward,” Cynthia Katsenes said. She noted that noise and traffic had already been discussed in previous meetings and remain concerns.
What Comes Next
Village officials will continue reviewing public feedback and the revised project plans. The future of the pickleball expansion at Doogan Park remains uncertain, but it’s clear that the village is trying to find a balance between growing interest in the sport and the needs of nearby residents.
News in Brief: Orland Park Delays Pickleball Expansion
Orland Park officials are rethinking plans to add eight new pickleball courts at Doogan Park after hearing public feedback. Some residents support the idea, while others worry about noise and traffic. Village leaders will review the plans again and consider other locations for a large pickleball complex.
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