Rotary Park Pickleball Court Project: The long-awaited pickleball courts at Rotary Park in Galesburg may not be ready until spring 2026. According to Parks and Recreation Director Don Miles, construction is likely delayed due to the late-season timing and busy schedules of local contractors. The city will open bids on Wednesday, August 7, with final approval expected at the City Council meeting on August 18.
Community Support Grows
At Monday’s Galesburg City Council meeting, many pickleball supporters filled the room. Some attendees even brought paddles to show their excitement. During public comments, Sue Hulett of Ward 1 spoke in favor of the project.
She said,
“The facility will not only serve the growing pickleball community here, but will enable Galesburg to host tournaments and bring visitors and revenue to Galesburg.”
The plan includes six to eight courts at Rotary Park, located at 1625 West Losey Street. The design is by Farnsworth Group, Inc., approved earlier this year on April 21.
Construction Delays Expected
Don Miles explained that construction depends on which contractor wins the bid. He added that timing is a challenge.
“Timeline for construction will depend on the successful bidder,”. “Since we are getting late in the construction season, most contractors have projects already lined up for the remainder of the season.
So it is very possible that this project will not be completed until spring of next year.”(Don Miles )
Features of the New Courts
The courts will be built on concrete with fences around and between them. They will be placed southwest of the warming shelter at Rotary Park. Lighting is part of the plan, but may be delayed depending on the cost of bids.
Rotary Park was chosen because it already has restrooms, parking, and a central location. These features help keep costs down compared to other possible sites.
Addressing Neighborhood Concerns
Some nearby residents were worried about noise and lights from the courts. In response, the city added landscaping to reduce sound and promised to use modern lighting that limits glare. Don Miles said the high school tennis courts were used as an example of how this can work without disturbing neighbors.
Existing Courts at Bateman Park
Bateman Park also has pickleball courts, which were created from old tennis courts in 2021. These courts are still in use but show some wear. Don Miles confirmed that maintenance crews are filling surface cracks as needed. However, no major repairs or upgrades are planned at this time.
News in Brief: Rotary Park Pickleball Court Project
Galesburg’s Rotary Park pickleball courts are expected to open in spring 2026 due to construction delays. Supporters hope the new courts will boost local play and tourism. Plans include six to eight courts, lighting, and noise control. Final approval of the project is scheduled for August 18.
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