South Whidbey Sports Complex Pickleball Upgrade: Pickleball is getting a major boost in South Whidbey as six new dedicated courts are set to be built at the South Whidbey Sports Complex. The South Whidbey Parks and Recreation District approved construction last week, awarding the project to Trico, a Burlington-based contractor known for its work on the Blackburn Pickleball Pavilion in Mount Vernon.
Community-Powered Funding and Features
The $686,700 project is being funded through a mix of state and local support:
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A $451,800 grant from Washington’s Recreation and Conservation Office
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$54,000 raised by Whidbey Island Pickleball
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$8,800 from the South Whidbey Project, led by three local high school graduates
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$172,100 in reallocated park funds
Commissioners opted to enhance the project by adding court resurfacing and perimeter curbing—improvements expected to increase durability and visual appeal. Facility supervisor Tom Fallon supported the upgrades, noting the curbing would help prevent future damage to the asphalt surface.
Construction Timeline and Expectations
Construction is scheduled to begin in mid-August. Trico will have 100 days to complete the project, aiming for a Halloween finish depending on weather. Once completed, the new courts will offer more opportunities for local pickleball players and help meet growing demand for the fast-growing sport on Whidbey Island.
News in Brief: South Whidbey Sports Complex Pickleball Upgrade
South Whidbey Parks and Recreation approved Trico to build six pickleball courts at the South Whidbey Sports Complex. The project is fully funded with $686,700 and includes resurfacing and curbing. Construction starts in mid-August and is planned to finish by Halloween, weather permitting.