Pickleball Design at New Wheeler Road: Lee County Parks & Recreation has unveiled concept plans for the Wheeler Road Community Park, featuring significant updates including new pickleball courts. Mack A. Young, the director of Lee County Parks and Recreation, has reached out to community leaders to solicit their input on the plans. In a July 31 email, Young encouraged the public to review the designs and participate in the feedback survey. “We encourage you to share these plans and survey link with fellow community members and stakeholders in Boca Grande to provide their feedback,” Young stated.
Planned Additions and Improvements
The proposed design includes three new pickleball courts, a restroom building adjacent to the courts, and two shade structures—one near the tennis courts and another by the pickleball courts. Additionally, ADA-compliant sidewalks will be installed around the interior perimeter of both dog parks, ensuring accessibility within the fenced areas. These enhancements are part of a broader 5-year Capital Improvement Program aimed at upgrading park facilities.
Community Reactions and Historical Context
This new proposal follows feedback from island resident Nancy Leckerling, who, at a January 2024 Lee County Commissioners meeting, advocated for retaining both existing public tennis courts instead of replacing one with additional pickleball facilities. The ensuing discussions and community meetings highlighted the need to balance tennis and pickleball options. As a result, Lee County Commissioner Kevin Ruane collaborated with residents to preserve the two tennis courts on Wheeler Road while seeking an alternative site for pickleball courts.
News in Brief: Pickleball Design at New Wheeler Road
Lee County Parks & Recreation has unveiled concept plans for Wheeler Road Community Park, incorporating new features including pickleball courts. The proposed updates involve adding three pickleball courts, a restroom building, and shade structures near both the tennis and pickleball areas. Additionally, ADA-compliant sidewalks will be installed around the dog parks. This initiative is part of a broader 5-year Capital Improvement Program aimed at enhancing local recreational facilities. The plans were developed following community feedback, particularly from island resident Nancy Leckerling, who advocated for retaining the two existing public tennis courts. Lee County Commissioner Kevin Ruane has supported this by ensuring the tennis courts remain, while finding a new location for additional pickleball courts.
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