Stafford Park Pickleball Courts Grand Opening: Liberty County Recreation Department opened six new pickleball courts at Stafford Park on Friday, immediately attracting players. The project repurposed underused tennis courts to meet growing local demand for pickleball. The courts are open daily from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m., with lights on at dusk.
Community Support and Leadership
Barnard Rose, an early advocate for pickleball in Liberty County, praised the new courts. Liberty County Commission Chairman Donald Lovette said,
“I would be remiss if I did not thank the father of pickleball in Liberty County, Barnard Rose. We have made great progress since our trip to the court in Richmond Hill that day. Bernard, you are living proof one person can make a difference.”
Charlene Godley, chair of the Liberty County Recreation Board, recalled enthusiasts presenting a PowerPoint at a board meeting to show interest.
“They kind of got us excited,” she said. LCRD Director Raymond Gross added, “I think this is going to get used quite a bit.”
Future Plans and Funding
County Administrator Joseph Mosley said,
“This is the first for Liberty County, but it will not be the last. We’re going to work on more pickleball courts.”
Godley mentioned that phases 1 and 2 at Fleming’s Gill Park are completed and additional courts are being planned.
The project was funded through Special Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) proceeds. Gross noted,
“If it wasn’t for that, this wouldn’t be here.”
Chairman Donald Lovette added,
“We are eyewitnesses to the power and effectiveness of our SPLOST dollars. These pennies make projects like these possible.”
The new courts at Stafford Park provide residents a dedicated space for recreation, social interaction, and fitness while highlighting the community’s growing interest in pickleball.
News in Brief: Stafford Park Pickleball Courts Grand Opening
Liberty County opened six pickleball courts at Stafford Park on Friday, immediately drawing players. The courts, funded by SPLOST, replace underused tennis courts. Barnard Rose was recognized for championing the sport locally. County officials plan to add more courts in the future at Fleming’s Gill Park and other locations.