Duncan Park Pickleball Court Upgrades: Six new pickleball courts are being added at Duncan Park in Spartanburg, with work expected to finish by the end of September. The project, costing about $98,000, will be funded mostly by insurance proceeds from Hurricane Helene damage.
Renovation Plans
The former tennis courts will be resurfaced and updated with new nets and benches. Two tennis courts will remain for players.
Kim Brown, Spartanburg’s Parks, Recreation and Special Events Director, explained the decision.
“One thing we’ve learned over the last couple of years is that pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. We pulled some data — not only from people who use the park, but also from national trends — and we decided it would be best to introduce the first set of dedicated pickleball courts in the city,” (Kim Brown).
The courts are part of a larger set of upgrades at Duncan Park, which also include a new ADA-accessible kayak dock and the return of fishing.
Progress on Construction
Crews have already repaired fencing damaged by the hurricane, with painting to follow. After that, Sport Court Carolina will handle resurfacing and the pickleball conversion.
“The overall goal of these changes is to create a space specifically for pickleball players of all ages to come out and enjoy that dedicated area, within a park that’s already a gem in the city,” (Kim Brown).
Community Excitement
Local residents have welcomed the news. Bobby Goshorn said,
“Well, I think it’s going to be great for the neighborhood — just having the ability to walk out of their house and come here. Pickleball is such a growing sport; I think it’ll be a great addition to everything.”
San Antonio Perkins shared his excitement to try something new.
“I do see myself playing pickleball,” he said. “I haven’t done it much, but I would love to get out there and try something new. So, it just gives me another adventure to explore in the park.”
Looking Ahead
City leaders plan to celebrate the finished courts with an opening event once renovations are complete. The new facilities are expected to boost community spirit and attract more visitors to Duncan Park.
News in Brief: Duncan Park Pickleball Court Upgrades
Spartanburg’s Duncan Park will add six new pickleball courts by the end of September. The $98,000 project, funded mostly by hurricane insurance money, includes new nets, benches, and resurfaced courts. Residents are excited about the upgrades, which will also feature other park improvements and a future opening event.
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