Major Pickleball Project in Riverside: A major development for pickleball enthusiasts in Riverside has moved forward, with a local group clearing a significant hurdle in their plan to build what could become one of the largest indoor pickleball facilities in Ohio and potentially the U.S. Black Barn Pickleball’s proposal, recently approved by the Riverside Planning Commission, promises to address a growing need for indoor courts in the area.
Facility Details and Phased Construction
Black Barn Pickleball aims to establish a 13-acre facility near Linden Avenue and Spaulding Road, close to Archbishop Carroll High School.
“The region could use more indoor courts for the fastest-growing sport in the nation because inclement Ohio weather means that people can’t play pickleball outside most days of the year“, said Mike Bettencourt, co-founder of Black Barn Pickleball.
“There’s about 215 days a year that you cannot play pickleball outside due to rain or wind or snow or cold,” he said. “A dedicated facility would give all the players a place to play year-round.”
The plan includes 18 to 20 indoor courts and eight outdoor courts. The first phase will involve constructing eight indoor pickleball courts and a parking area. The second phase will add eight outdoor pickleball courts and an additional 10 to 12 indoor pickleball courts.
“If final site plans are approved next month, construction hopefully would begin in October and the first building and the parking lot could be operational in the first quarter of 2025.” Bettencourt said.
Community and Economic Impact
The new facility will include various amenities such as food and beverage options and potentially a few championship-style courts for tournaments. Bettencourt also suggested that the land near the entrance could accommodate new retail or restaurant businesses, enhancing the area’s economic vibrancy. Despite these promising developments, local residents have expressed concerns about potential drainage and flooding issues.
Resident Concerns and Solutions
Residents like Rebecca Howard have voiced worries about increased flooding, with Howard noting, “I love the idea—I think it’s absolutely wonderful. My only concern is some of the building and we flood tremendously directly behind there.” Black Barn Pickleball plans to construct a retention basin to manage water runoff, aiming to reduce these concerns and demonstrate their commitment to being a good neighbor.
Community Support and Future Prospects
The project has received strong backing from community members, including Riverside Council member Zachary Joseph, who sees the facility as a major asset for the region. Joseph highlighted the facility’s potential to become a key local attraction, alongside existing landmarks like the Air Force base and Pettibone coffee shop. Bettencourt, along with co-founders Jeff Jett and Brandon Williamson, emphasizes the positive impact of pickleball on community and health, hoping the facility will become a central hub for local and regional players.
News in Brief: Major Pickleball Project in Riverside
A proposed pickleball facility in Riverside has moved closer to realization with the Riverside Planning Commission’s approval. The Black Barn Pickleball project will feature 18-20 indoor courts and eight outdoor courts on a 13-acre site. The development will proceed in phases, with construction potentially starting in October and the first phase operational by early 2025. Despite some resident concerns about drainage, the project has strong community support and could become one of the largest indoor pickleball facilities in Ohio and beyond.
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