Tucker Pickleball Courts Debate: A plan to add new pickleball courts in Tucker, Georgia, is causing debate as neighbors and players share opposing views on noise and recreation needs. On Monday night, city officials presented the results of a sound study that analyzed three possible locations and offered solutions to reduce the sport’s loud “popping” sound.
Sound Study Findings
The city hired PSM Consulting, also known as Pickleball Sound Mitigation, to measure noise at Tucker Recreation Center, Henderson Park, and Rosenfeld Park. The study found Tucker Recreation Center was not ideal in its current state due to nearby homes. Adding 12- to 14-foot sound barriers could lower noise to the target level of 52 decibels or less, but consultants warned these barriers might make on-court noise louder for players. Henderson Park was judged a good spot for new courts, with little impact on nearby houses. Rosenfeld Park was not recommended as-is. Consultants said that tall barriers alone would not reduce sound enough. They suggested fully enclosing the courts with fabric or a solid structure, redesigning the layout, or choosing either tennis or pickleball instead of sharing the same courts.
Residents Voice Concerns
More than two dozen residents attended the meeting to hear the findings and share opinions. Some objected when a Tucker City Council member compared the sound of pickleball paddles to tapping on the council chamber desk. Tucker resident Revonda Cosby, who lives near Tucker Recreation Center, said the city should consider other needs before building courts.
“I think more conversation needs to be had. Hear from the pickleball professionals,” (Revonda Cosby).
When asked about using the funds elsewhere, Cosby added,
“Improve the rec center. The parks comprehensive plan spoke to it. Do what folks have asked for and the documents in the ‘Almost 10 year old Tucker.’”
Players Share Their View
Pickleball player and Tucker resident Will Trocchi has played at all three proposed sites. He said he understands the homeowners’ worries even though the noise does not bother him.
“I’m not really affected by the noise, I kind of forget that it happens. But I understand people’s viewpoints. I haven’t picked a side but I do play pickleball, and I would be annoyed if something was in my backyard I didn’t want to listen to.”(Will Trocchi)
Next Steps
No final decisions have been made about adding or upgrading the courts. After Monday’s meeting, the city council decided not to post bids for construction while they review the sound study.
Another public meeting will be held on Monday, September 27 at 6 p.m. The study results will be presented again, and residents will have another chance to ask questions and give feedback.
News in Brief: Tucker Pickleball Courts Debate
Tucker city leaders shared a sound study on plans for new pickleball courts at three parks. Residents raised concerns about noise, while players called for balance. No bids will be posted until after a second public meeting on September 27, when more community input will be collected.
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