Pickleball Expansion at Rutenberg Park: For pickleball players in Fort Myers, the recent announcement by the Lee Board of County Commissioners comes as a welcome development. At their meeting on Tuesday, October 15, the board voted to award a contract for a significant expansion of Rutenberg Park’s facilities, specifically to accommodate new pickleball courts.
Rutenberg Park: A Community Hub
Rutenberg Park has served as a vital community space since its opening in 1977. Located at 6500 South Pointe Boulevard, this park boasts a range of amenities designed for recreational activities, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors. Current features include:
- A baseball field
- A basketball court
- Concessions
- A football field
- A pavilion
- A playground
- Racquetball courts
- Restrooms
- Tennis courts
Exciting Additions to Rutenberg Park
The upcoming pickleball project will enhance the park’s appeal by introducing several new features aimed at accommodating the growing interest in pickleball. The planned improvements include:
- Eight lighted pickleball courts, with four of these courts featuring covered areas for shade.
- An ADA-compliant restroom facility.
- A new office building for park staff.
- Enhancements to the parking lot.
- Improved sidewalks for accessibility.
- A paved walking trail for visitors to enjoy.
Project Financing and Timeline
The $3.2 million contract for the park improvement was awarded to Stultz Inc. during the meeting. Funding for this project will be sourced from Community Park Impact Fees, ensuring that the improvements align with community needs and expectations.
Construction is slated to begin soon, with an anticipated completion timeline of approximately nine months. This project represents a significant investment in the local community, reflecting the growing popularity of pickleball and the need for more accessible recreational facilities.
News in Brief: Pickleball Expansion at Rutenberg Park
The Lee Board of County Commissioners has approved a $3.2 million contract to expand Rutenberg Park in Fort Myers, Florida, with new pickleball facilities. The project will include eight lighted courts, ADA-compliant restrooms, and additional amenities, enhancing the park’s offerings. Construction is expected to take about nine months, funded through Community Park Impact Fees.
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