Pickleball Paradise or Public Problem: Cranberry Township has gained a reputation as the region’s pickleball Mecca, with 19 state-of-the-art courts catering to the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. However, the growing popularity of pickleball has sparked a divide between enthusiasts and nearby residents.
Over the past three years, the sport has grown by more than 200%, now boasting 36 million players nationwide. Cranberry’s pickleball complex is one of the most impressive in the region, attracting players from sunrise to late evening. But as the courts fill with energy, local residents’ frustrations are beginning to surface.
A Noise Problem for Residents
For nearby residents like Jeff Gaguzis of the Westminster Homeowners’ Association, the near-constant sound of pickleball has become unbearable.
“From 7:15 in the morning until about 10 o’clock at night, it’s just pop, pop, pop, pop. And it is driving people crazy,” Gaguzis said.
Noise complaints have become a growing concern, with residents voicing their frustration about the relentless sound of paddles hitting balls. The township is now exploring ways to mitigate the noise, but solutions remain elusive.
Restricted Access: A Public Outcry
Beyond the noise, access to the courts has become another sticking point for Cranberry residents. While the courts are located in Graham Park, they are not open to the general public. The Cranberry Township Pickleball Association (CTPA), which runs the facility, limits residents’ access to just three courts between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., unless they pay a $100+ membership fee.
“I don’t think it’s right that non-residents are playing up ahead of Cranberry taxpayers,” said local resident Jim Charles, who witnessed a township grandmother and her granddaughter being turned away for not being members.
Charles, who isn’t a pickleball player, has questioned the fairness of the setup, arguing that taxpayers shouldn’t be shut out of a facility located in a public park.
The Pickleball Association’s Defense
The CTPA was founded by Bruce Mazzoni, who also serves as a Cranberry Township supervisor. While Mazzoni declined an interview, he has defended the association as a beneficial partnership with the township. According to Mazzoni, the courts are funded entirely by the association’s nearly 2,000 volunteer members and use no taxpayer money.
“Cranberry Township residents should be thrilled to have this opportunity to play and join as a member,” said Ohio Township resident Nancy Furbee, one of several non-residents who are members of the association.
However, with a long waiting list to join the association, many Cranberry residents feel left out.
Looking Ahead: Possible Solutions
In response to the growing discontent, the township is planning to build two additional public courts in another park, but those won’t be ready for at least a year. In the meantime, tensions over noise and access are likely to continue as the pickleball craze shows no signs of slowing down in Cranberry Township.
News in Brief : Pickleball Paradise or Public Problem
Cranberry Township, home to 19 top-tier pickleball courts, has become a hub for the sport, which has grown by over 200% in the past three years. However, residents are raising concerns over noise and limited court access. While the courts are managed by the Cranberry Township Pickleball Association, residents can only use three courts for a limited time unless they pay for a membership, sparking frustration. The township plans to address the issue by adding two new public courts, but these won’t be available until next year.
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