Community Response and Project Details
Mayor Bob Jarvis expressed his enthusiasm for the new facilities, noting the strong community response.
“I’ve gotten texts from people (saying) how happy they are with it. They start playing pickleball here at 7 a.m. They’ve got their own little leagues going.” – (Jarvis)
The village council’s decision to replace the outdated tennis courts with new pickleball courts was driven by a desire to cater to evolving recreational interests. SportScape Builders of Marysville completed the project, which involved replacing old asphalt courts with a new concrete surface, adding nets, basketball goals, and fencing. The upgrade cost the village approximately $145,000, primarily funded through American Rescue Plan funds.
Challenges and Future Enhancements
Although the pickleball and basketball courts were finished last October, scheduling a ribbon-cutting ceremony proved challenging.
“The park board wanted to show off the newest gem in the jewels of Lexington parks, so they asked if they could put this together. It kind of took a while to get everybody to be able to get there.” – (Jarvis)
The Lexington park board, which initially proposed the idea for the pickleball courts, has seen the project’s success as a testament to the community’s needs.
“I think it’s wonderful for Lexington. We need to keep up to date on what people like.” – (Marilyn Fisher, the board’s Lexington Senior Civic Center representative)
Upcoming Projects
Looking ahead, Jarvis mentioned additional improvements planned for Bicentennial Park. A new concrete sidewalk will connect the pickleball courts to the parking lot and the brick walking path. There are also plans to add picnic tables near the new courts. Additionally, the existing picnic shelters north of the parking lot are scheduled for rebuilding next week.
Discussions are underway regarding the replacement of outdated playground equipment, though there is no definitive timeline yet.
“We’re looking to replace the playground equipment here. It’s starting to reach end of life. It’s quite expensive, so that’s our next big project.” – (Jarvis)
News in Brief: New Pickleball Courts in Lexington
Lexington celebrated the addition of three new pickleball courts and a refreshed basketball court at Bicentennial Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday. The project, costing around $145,000, was funded largely by American Rescue Plan funds and completed by SportScape Builders of Marysville.
Mayor Bob Jarvis highlighted the strong community response, noting early morning games and local leagues. Despite finishing last October, the ribbon-cutting was delayed due to scheduling. Future plans for the park include a connecting sidewalk, new picnic tables, and updates to existing playground equipment, which is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Also Read: The Rise of Pickleball in Maumelle, Arkansas
