McGuire Park Pickleball Court Renovation: McGuire Park in DeWitt will soon feature new pickleball courts, an adult fitness station, and a more accessible path to the Looking Glass River. Construction begins August 25 and will take seven to nine weeks. The $380,000 project is partly funded by a $190,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Community Demand for Pickleball
Residents have long requested pickleball courts in DeWitt. Daniel Coss, DeWitt city administrator, said,
“They’ve been probably the top ask from the community for our parks systems.”
Abigail Tenney, a local resident, shared her excitement.
“I’m glad that the city of DeWitt is listening to what the people want.” Although she has never played pickleball, “If I can find someone to play with me, yeah.”
Funding and Project Details
The city received a 50% matching grant from the Michigan DNR through the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Coss said,
“So the city received a 50% matching grant from the Michigan DNR through the land water conservation fund.”
Along with pickleball courts, the project includes an adult fitness station near the playground. The path to the Looking Glass River will be improved for easier access.
Access During Construction
Some park areas will remain open during the work.
“We’ll leave the playground equipment open around when they’re working on the pickleball courts. We are doing an adult fitness center that will be close to the playground, so we will probably shut the playground down during that timeframe,” (Daniel Coss).
Why It Matters
Tenney believes the upgrades will benefit the entire community.
“Especially with DeWitt because there’s so many kids that live here – it helps everyone stay connected,” (Abigail Tenney)
News in Brief: McGuire Park Pickleball Court Renovation
DeWitt’s McGuire Park will add pickleball courts, a fitness station, and a river path upgrade starting August 25. The $380,000 project, funded partly by a $190,000 state grant, will take up to nine weeks. Some areas will stay open during construction, with others closing temporarily.
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