Moab Pickleball Court Grand Opening: Moab will soon have its first dedicated pickleball courts after years of planning and delays. On August 5, the Grand County Commission voted unanimously to build eight pickleball courts and an ADA-accessible playground at the Old Spanish Trail Arena. Construction is expected to start this fall.
The project will cost $1.27 million, with half covered by a federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grant. The City of Moab will also contribute up to $110,000 toward the pickleball courts. The playground, costing $679,555, will be designed by BCI Burke Company and serve children ages 2 to 12.
Excitement From the Pickleball Community
Many local players have been pushing for courts for years, often practicing on makeshift surfaces. Player Hicks said,
“The thought of playing on a real court in Moab while I can still walk and breathe really thrills me. I can’t wait to get out there and just see that ball come over the net on a smooth surface.”
She later added,
“[Getting courts] is life changing for the pickleball community” and, “This was something that was a dream come true for most of us to actually have dedicated professional pickleball courts. It’s been very emotional – a lot of ups and downs.”
Long-Awaited Approval
Earlier attempts to build courts at Old City Park and Swanny City Park failed due to costs and resident concerns. The Old Spanish Trail Arena site became the favored choice last year. The county delayed final approval in May due to budget concerns but moved forward after review.
Broader Community Impact
Angie Book, executive director of the Old Spanish Trail Arena, said,
“Grand County doesn’t have these amenities, and they’re in extremely high demand… and I don’t think there goes a day without somebody asking where they can play [pickleball].”
Player Mike Toninelli told commissioners,
“It supports physical health, mental health and social connection. For many of us, it’s our lifeline — a way to stay active, engaged and connected to our neighbors.”
Rick Davidson shared that pickleball helped him and his wife meet people when they moved to Moab, while longtime advocate Steven Russell said the courts will open doors for clinics, school programs, and tournaments.
The Playground Addition
The new playground will span 137 by 119 feet and accommodate up to 400 users. It will feature themed play areas, sensory activities, swings, climbing panels, and shade. Book said,
“I think the kids are going to have that moment that they’re going to be like, ‘I want to go to that playground.’”
Equipment is expected to arrive within 9–10 weeks of ordering, with installation to follow.
News in Brief: Moab Pickleball Court Grand Opening
Moab will build its first eight pickleball courts and an ADA-accessible playground at the Old Spanish Trail Arena after a unanimous Grand County Commission vote on August 5. Construction is set for this fall, with completion possible next spring. The $1.27 million project is funded through federal, county, and city contributions.
ALSO READ: Littleton’s New Pickleball Courts Promise Big Boost for Community Fun and Fitness