Timrod Park Builds New Pickleball Courts: The recent transformation of three tennis courts into eight dedicated pickleball courts at Timrod Park marks a significant enhancement for the Florence community. This upgrade aligns with the city’s broader efforts to improve recreational facilities, driven by an $8 million federal grant awarded for park development.
Expansion Project Overview
The conversion project includes the new pickleball courts and features reconfigured sports fields, multi-use walkways, playgrounds, fitness equipment, landscaping, and upgraded parking facilities. This multifaceted approach aims to create a more accessible and enjoyable environment for all residents.
Community Reaction
On a Sunday morning, pickleball enthusiasts and tennis players flocked to the new courts, eager to experience the latest improvements. Instructor Paul Pittman expressed his appreciation for the city’s commitment to enhancing recreational options.
“Older folks are getting off the couch and playing the sport for the first time in 20 years. It’s a much more social sport because everybody is closer together, very welcoming sport. Pickleball players tend to be great advocates for their sport; they bring other people in constantly, and I think its popularity is just because it is something that people can do in a small space.” – (Pittman)
Benefits for All Ages
Pittman, who teaches tennis to young children, highlighted the health benefits associated with both sports.
“Parks and recreation and organizations, communities need to look at the fact that you got two sports growing rapidly; you got public demand for courts in both sports, and it’s great that more Americans are getting exercise. That’s absolutely super.” – (Pittman)
He also emphasized how pickleball aids in reducing anxiety and improving hand-eye coordination.
News in Brief: Timrod Park Builds New Pickleball Courts
Timrod Park in Florence has completed the conversion of three tennis courts into eight new pickleball courts, part of an expansion project funded by an $8 million federal grant. The improvements include reconfigured sports fields, multi-use walkways, and enhanced facilities. Local instructor Paul Pittman praised the developments for encouraging physical activity among older adults and promoting community engagement through pickleball and tennis.
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