“Barring any further setbacks, we plan to open the courts for public use in August,” Zamora said. The opening, initially scheduled for spring, was postponed to early summer before the new timeline was set.
The delay stemmed from complications identified when city officials, along with DeRosa Sports Construction, inspected the completed courts. Zamora noted that these issues prevented the city from formally accepting the project. A representative from DeRosa Sports declined to comment further, directing inquiries back to Peekskill officials.
In a similar vein, drainage issues have also plagued another Peekskill sports venue. Repairs to the outfield at the 20-year-old Peekskill Stadium, built on a former dumpsite, led to the postponement of baseball games until 2025. The stadium, which initially had drainage only for the infield, required extensive repairs that could not be completed in time for the current season. As a result, the Peekskill High School baseball team and local men’s leagues were forced to relocate their games. The city has hired Jablko Construction to install underdrains in the outfield at a cost of $19,500.
Zamora, who previously managed the Senior Citizen Nutrition Program, now oversees additional responsibilities, including the Parks & Recreation Department and the Youth Bureau. This transition follows the retirement of Cathy Montaldo, Peekskill’s Superintendent of Recreation, who had held the position for nearly four years and was responsible for managing programs, budgets, and coordination with community organizations.
Once operational, the pickleball courts will be open seasonally from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, weather permitting, and will be accessible to both residents and non-residents. Fees will be implemented to cover maintenance costs, with rates prorated for the abbreviated season. The reservation of court time will be managed through the Community Pass platform, with an attendant on-site to assist players and ensure proper upkeep.
The courts are part of a larger $1 million NYS SAM grant-funded project that includes a multi-sport field, an asphalt track, and a volleyball court. Secured by Councilman Ramon Fernandez and former State Assemblymember Sandy Galef, this grant aims to enhance recreational facilities in Peekskill.
News in Brief: Peekskill’s Pickleball Courts Delays Resolved
Peekskill’s new pickleball courts at Depew Park, initially slated for spring, are now expected to open in August due to drainage issues discovered in April. Jonathan Zamora, Peekskill’s Community Hub Director, confirmed that water lines and meters will be replaced to address the problem. The courts will be open seasonally from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week, with fees for maintenance and upkeep. Reservations will be managed through Community Pass, and an attendant will be present. The facility is part of a $1 million NYS SAM grant project, which also funded a multi-sport field, track, and volleyball court. Pickleball, a rapidly growing sport, will benefit from these new upgrades.
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