South Carolina’s Pickleball Expansion: As pickleball surges in popularity across South Carolina, Clarendon County residents are rallying for new courts to keep pace with the sport’s growth. During a recent county council meeting, local voices made a strong case for expanding pickleball facilities, highlighting the benefits of increased community engagement and entertainment options.
Community Advocacy
The push for more pickleball courts was prominently featured at the last county council meeting. Todd Cole Clazier, a prominent advocate and member of a local pickleball community group, showed the need for additional facilities.
“Both Sumter and Florence are building facilities with dozens of courts. In smaller towns like Elloree and St. Matthews, they, too, have recently built courts. Likewise, there is a growing interest in Clarendon County.” – (Clazier)
County Administrator’s Response
County Administrator Lynden Anthony addressed the residents’ concerns, revealing that plans are already underway to incorporate pickleball courts into the community. “We do have some space; we have significant space available to us to expand that park, redo our tennis courts, build some pickleball courts,” Anthony stated, mentioning J.C. Britton Park as a potential site. He also noted that other park amenities would be updated alongside the proposed pickleball facilities.
Current Facilities and Future Plans
At present, Clarendon County does not have county-operated pickleball courts. Temporary courts are available at a local gym, but the community’s demand for permanent facilities continues to grow. Resident Tarry Norsworthy expressed support for the initiative, stating,
“I think it’s a wonderful idea because we are so rural. People come from these big cities and have nothing to do, so, yeah, I think it’s a good idea.”
Impact on Quality of Life
Clazier highlighted the positive impact that new pickleball courts could have on the town’s overall quality of life. “It’s accessible to young and old alike and provides a level of exercise and recommended by the medical committee,” he noted. County officials are optimistic about securing grants to fund the project and are currently working on designs, though no timeline has been established for completion.
News in Brief: South Carolina’s Pickleball Expansion
Clarendon County residents are calling for new pickleball courts as the sport’s popularity rises in South Carolina. Advocates, including Todd Cole Clazier, argue that additional courts would enhance community engagement and recreational options.
County Administrator Lynden Anthony revealed that plans are underway, with J.C. Britton Park being a potential location. Currently, temporary courts are available at a local gym, but officials hope to secure funding through grants. Designs are in progress, but no timeline has been set for the project’s completion.
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