Auburn Embraces Pickleball Expansion: Local pickleball enthusiasts in the Auburn area have a new reason to celebrate with the recent addition of new pickleball courts, reflecting the sport’s growing popularity. The tennis court at Sawyer Park in Throop has been converted into three dedicated pickleball courts.
Town Supervisor Eric Ridley emphasized the need to accommodate the rising interest in pickleball, which has been identified as the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. This conversion comes as tennis sees a decline in participation.
“Pickleball is similar to tennis but incorporates elements of badminton and table tennis. It’s enjoyed by players of all ages, but its low-impact nature makes it especially suitable for seniors.” – (Ridley)
The renovations at Sawyer Park also include a new playground, a resealed basketball court, improved drainage, and expanded parking. Supported by a $55,000 state grant and an additional $60,000 from the town, the park has seen increased activity since the improvements. Ridley noted that the new pickleball courts have fostered a greater sense of community.
In Sterling, another aging tennis court will be repurposed for pickleball. Supervisor Andrew Joyce announced that the transformation will occur at the Old Town Garage on Williams Road. The location, already popular for its basketball courts and open space for children, is set to gain additional appeal as a community hub.
“The new courts will enhance this beautiful spot. It’s a green space with Sterling Creek running alongside, perfect for adding pickleball facilities.” – (Joyce)
The new courts at the Old Town Garage will require new pavement and painted lines before nets are installed in the spring.
For those interested in existing pickleball facilities in the Cayuga County area, several locations are available:
- Auburn YMCA-WEIU (Indoor, 3 courts)
- Hours: 5 to 11 a.m. Mon-Fri, 8 to 11 a.m. Sat, 7 to 11 a.m. Sun
- Location: 27 William St., Auburn
- Info: auburnymca.org or (315) 253-5304
- Austin Park (Outdoor, 4 courts)
- Hours: 8 to 11 a.m. Mon-Sat, 8 to 10:30 a.m. Sun
- Location: 1 E. Austin St., Skaneateles
- Info: townofskaneateles.com or (315) 685-3473
- Casey Park (Indoor, 4 courts; Outdoor, 2 courts)
- Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Fri, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sat-Sun
- Location: 150 N. Division St., Auburn
- Info: auburnny.gov or (315) 255-4737
- Cato-Meridian Community Recreation Center (Indoor)
- Hours: 8 to 11:15 a.m. Mon-Thurs, 7 to 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 to 8 p.m. Fri, 7:30 to 10 a.m. Sat
- Location: 2851 Route 370, Cato
- Info: catomeridian.org or (315) 626-6735
- Owasco Playground Area (Outdoor, 4 courts)
- Hours: Open daily, weather permitting
- Location: 6 Bristol Ave., Owasco
- Info: owascony.gov or (315) 253-9021
- Sawyer Park (Outdoor, 3 courts)
- Hours: Open daily, weather permitting
- Location: 2276 Turnpike Road, Throop
- Info: throopny.gov/parksrec or (315) 252-7373
- Skaneateles YMCA & Community Center (Indoor, 3 courts)
- Hours: 8 to 11 a.m. Mon-Sat, 8 to 10:30 a.m. Sun
- Location: 97 State St., Skaneateles
- Info: skaneatelescommunitycenter.org or (315) 685-2266
The addition of these facilities shows the increasing embrace of pickleball and the community’s commitment to providing diverse recreational opportunities.
News in Brief: Auburn Embraces Pickleball Expansion
In Auburn, the Sawyer Park tennis court has been converted into three dedicated pickleball courts, reflecting the sport’s rapid growth. Town Supervisor Eric Ridley highlighted pickleball’s appeal, particularly for seniors, amid declining tennis participation. The park’s upgrades, funded by a $55,000 state grant and $60,000 from the town, also include a new playground and improved facilities.
In Sterling, another tennis court at the Old Town Garage will be repurposed for pickleball, enhancing the community hub. Several local facilities in Cayuga County now offer pickleball, including Auburn YMCA, Austin Park, and Casey Park, underscoring the sport’s expanding popularity.
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