Tariffville Park Pickleball Court Opening: The town of Simsbury held a ribbon-cutting event on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 10 a.m. to officially open the new pickleball courts at Tariffville Park. The project was celebrated by town officials, community members, and supporters who worked together to bring the courts to life.
A Special Day for Simsbury
The event began with a welcome speech from Tom Tyburski, Director of Culture, Parks and Recreation. Several local leaders shared remarks, including First Selectwoman Wendy Mackstutis, Town Manager Marc Nelson, and Culture, Parks and Recreation Commission member Christine Boswell.
The new courts mark a milestone for the town’s recreational growth and community spirit. Speakers highlighted the teamwork and support behind the project’s success.
A Team Effort from Start to Finish
The project received strong backing from many local groups and individuals. The Simsbury Board of Selectmen, including current members Wendy Mackstutis, Steven Antonio, Diana Yeisley, Curtis Looney, Heather Goetz, and Kevin Beal, played a key role. Past members Eric Wellman, Sean Askham, Chris Peterson, and Amber Abbuhl also helped shape the project.
The Simsbury Board of Finance also supported the effort. The current members include Chairwoman Lisa Heavner, Arthur House, Art Wallace, Michael Doyle, Bert Helfand, and Todd Burrick.
The Culture, Parks and Recreation Commission offered guidance throughout. Members include Chairman David Bush, Vice Chairman Kelly Kearney, Christine Boswell, Liz Keppel, Lori Coppinger, Tim Walzcak, Erik Petersen, Michelle Lipar, and Laura Riley.
Town Manager Marc Nelson and former Town Manager Maria Capriola helped guide the planning and funding process. Engineering support was provided by Tom Roy, Adam Kessler, and Daniel Gannon. Parks Superintendent Orlando Casiano also contributed to the construction and maintenance of the courts.
The Tariffville Village Association and the Simsbury Pickleball Players were among the community groups that gave their support.
A heartfelt thank-you was given to Charlotte Couchon and Phil Couchon, with the statement:
“Thank you for bringing pickleball to Simsbury!”
A Lasting Impact
The ribbon-cutting event marked more than just the opening of a sports facility. It showed what can happen when a town comes together with a shared goal. The new courts offer a fun and healthy way for residents of all ages to stay active.
The town hopes this project will inspire more community-led efforts in the future. The pickleball courts are now open to the public and ready to welcome new players.
News in Brief: Tariffville Park Pickleball Court Opening
Simsbury opened new pickleball courts at Tariffville Park with a ribbon-cutting on July 16, 2025. Town leaders and residents celebrated the project, made possible by community support and hard work. The courts are now open for public use and mark a new chapter in local recreation.
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