Pickleball Noise Dispute in South Burlington: South Burlington continues to grapple with noise complaints from Szymanski Park as residents, particularly those close to the new pickleball courts, voice their concerns.
Residents’ Complaints Intensify
The noise generated by pickleball has been a persistent issue for neighbors, especially for Jovana Guarino, a longtime resident of the area. Guarino, who lives about 30 meters from the courts installed last summer, describes the sound as a constant disturbance.
“I’ll wake at two in the morning thinking I’m hearing pickleball. So, I’ll go shut my windows, and I realize ‘It’s two in the morning, no one’s there.’” – (Guarino)
Her frustration has led her to demand for relocating the courts at city council meetings, expressing concerns not just for herself but for her 10-year-old grandson with autism.
City Council’s Response
In response to the complaints, South Burlington city councilors voted on August 20 to limit pickleball play to between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. and are exploring potential sound mitigation measures. Despite these adjustments, Guarino remains unsatisfied and is considering hiring an environmental lawyer if necessary. She has collected 75 signatures to petition for moving the courts and plans to continue her efforts.
Player Perspective
Pickleball players, while enjoying the sport’s health and social benefits, acknowledge the noise concerns. Bruce Perlongo, a player from Michigan, sympathized with the residents’ plight, saying,
“If you’re in your nice quiet home, you want peace and quiet, bang, bang, bang, bang. That’s got to be — not good.”
Next Steps
The issue is still unresolved, with no scheduled time for the city council to revisit the topic. NBC5 has reached out to South Burlington Parks and Recreation for further details but has not received a response.
News in Brief: Pickleball Noise Dispute in South Burlington
South Burlington is addressing ongoing noise complaints related to pickleball courts at Szymanski Park. Resident Jovana Guarino, living near the courts, reports disturbances even at night and is pushing for the courts to be relocated. City council has limited play hours and is considering sound mitigation but has yet to resolve the issue fully.
Pickleball players understand the noise concerns, but the matter remains unresolved with no further council meetings scheduled. Guarino continues to gather support, including considering legal action.
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