Pickleball vs Roller Hockey Debate Ends: The long-standing debate over the future of the roller hockey rink at Grand Avenue Park in Chino Hills has reached a resolution. On July 9, the City Council voted to preserve the rink for roller sports while accommodating pickleball enthusiasts through a hybrid resurfacing plan.
The decision maintains the rink’s role as a venue for roller hockey, roller derby, and pickleball, while also addressing the needs of both communities. The rink will be resurfaced to support pickleball with striping for hockey and roller derby, and will feature five pickleball courts, one of which will be available only during non-peak hours.
Chino Hills resident Johanne Valencia, 86, a pickleball player for two years, expressed satisfaction with the outcome. “I think it’s a good decision because everybody will have the chance to enjoy their own sport.” she said. Valencia’s neighbors, Vivian and Logan Wang, also appreciated the compromise, finding the game enjoyable despite the heat.
City spokesperson Nicole Freeman confirmed that the resurfacing will meet the standards required for pickleball and roller sports. However, there are concerns about the suitability of the new surface for roller hockey and skating. Vendors have noted that pickleball requires a sandier surface for grip, while roller hockey needs a smoother one for optimal play.
“The fifth pickleball court will only be in use for play during non-peak park times.” – (Ms. Freeman)
Vivienne Leonano, president of the Prison City Roller Derby team, which has used the rink since 2007, expressed gratitude for the council’s decision but voiced concerns about the new surface’s impact on roller sports.
Councilman Art Bennett emphasized the need for a safe surface for older pickleball players, and suggested that if additional pickleball courts are found, the rink could be later resurfaced specifically for roller sports. The project, estimated to cost between $50,000 and $60,000, includes resurfacing, purchasing portable nets, and repairing the existing fencing.
“This is the only logical compromise we can have.” – (Art Bennett)
Community Services Director Jonathan Marshall noted that the city is working on scheduling the resurfacing, which will be handled by Truline, a company specializing in game court construction.
News in Brief: Pickleball vs Roller Hockey Debate Ends
On July 9, Chino Hills City Council decided to preserve the roller hockey rink at Grand Avenue Park while accommodating pickleball through a hybrid resurfacing plan. The updated rink will include five pickleball courts and maintain striping for roller hockey and derby.
Despite concerns about the surface’s suitability for both sports, the plan aims to balance the needs of both communities. The resurfacing project, estimated at $50,000 to $60,000, will be managed by Truline. City officials and residents have expressed mixed reactions, with some appreciating the compromise and others concerned about the impact on roller sports.
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