Aurora Pickleball Court Removal Controversy: The Willow Ridge neighborhood in Aurora, Colorado, removed a newly built pickleball court after it was found to be unsafe. The homeowners association (HOA) had spent $140,000 in 2022 to renovate an old tennis court with plastic Versa tiles. An additional $3,600 was spent to haul the unusable court to the dump.
Court Issues and Safety Concerns
Residents quickly discovered that the court was uneven, cracked, and unsafe to play on. The surface produced poor bounce during games, and one woman fell and injured her wrist. Carole Scott, a local resident, said, “It looked great. It looked like a pickleball court.”
Homeowner Teresa LeGare added, “It’s really disappointing,” reflecting the frustration of neighbors who had hoped for a usable recreational space.
Project Background and Costs
The original plan aimed to convert a 40-year-old tennis court into a modern pickleball area. The HOA invested $140,000 in materials and installation, but the flawed project failed to provide a safe or functional space for residents. The removal brought the total cost to $143,600 for a court no one could use.
Broader Concerns About HOA Decisions
The incident highlights wider issues with some HOA projects across the country. Critics say flashy projects are often approved while practical, eco-friendly updates—like planting native gardens or collecting rainwater—are blocked. Such decisions can increase costs, waste materials, and delay long-term improvements.
Community Response and Next Steps
Homeowners who want change are encouraged to review HOA bylaws and work with neighbors to promote projects that are safe, cost-effective, and sustainable. The Willow Ridge case serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of rushing expensive renovations without proper planning.
News in Brief: Aurora Pickleball Court Removal Controversy
The Willow Ridge HOA in Aurora, Colorado, spent $140,000 to build a pickleball court on an old tennis court. Safety issues forced the community to remove it, adding $3,600 in disposal costs. Residents called the project “really disappointing,” highlighting concerns about poorly planned HOA projects and wasted resources.
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