Pickleball Courts in Mercer Island: The city of Mercer Island is on track to reinvigorate its pickleball scene by the end of the year with the renovation of the sport courts at Luther Burbank Park. Featuring eight new courts, this project aims to give local pickleball enthusiasts the opportunity to showcase their skills in a freshly updated environment.
Community Support Amid Construction Challenges
Construction kicked off in June, following the closure of the courts to the public on May 21. Capital Improvement Program Project Manager Sarah Bluvas noted that the community has remained optimistic and engaged throughout the renovation process. “Many community members have stopped by the courts to watch construction and thank the crews and staff for their work. The city is working hard to bring the community new pickleball courts as soon as possible and appreciates everyone’s support,” said Bluvas. However, the project encountered an unexpected hurdle in July when crews discovered an existing subgrade failure, leading to a temporary suspension of work while a remediation plan was developed.
Resumption of Work and Upcoming Phases
After Mercer Island City Council approved additional funding necessary for addressing the subgrade issue, construction resumed in early September. As the first phase of the renovation nears completion, the focus now shifts to final paving work, scheduled to begin the week of October 21, weather permitting. Following this, installation of pickleball nets and temporary striping will take place.
Bluvas highlighted FieldTurf’s comprehensive agenda, which includes the installation of a new perforated drain on the south edge of the courts, along with a new access path from the parking lot to the courts. Additionally, the existing gravel path from the restrooms to the center court will be refreshed, and the south hillside will be graded. The final acrylic playing surface and permanent striping are anticipated to be completed in 2025.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Plans
FieldTurf is not working alone; the project also involves several firms, including DA Hogan & Associates, known for its expertise in engineering and landscape architecture, along with Northwest Asphalt and Beynon, the subcontractor responsible for court surfacing. Local pickleball players provided valuable input on layout concepts back in May, ensuring the new design aligns with community needs.
According to a city document, the city’s PROS (Parks, Recreation, and Open Space) Plan identified these courts as a prime location for pickleball design. The renovation was included in the 2023-2024 Biennial Budget and Capital Improvement Program, with the design phase taking place from May 2023 to March 2024.
With a total budget of $1,186,102, the project is backed by a $193,000 grant from the King County Parks Capital and Open Space Program, along with funding from the city’s Capital Improvement Program and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The ongoing commitment to enhancing recreational facilities reflects Mercer Island’s dedication to supporting its pickleball community.
News in Brief : Pickleball Courts in Mercer Island
The renovation of the sport courts at Luther Burbank Park in Mercer Island is set to be completed by the end of the year. The project, which includes eight new pickleball courts, faced delays due to subgrade issues but resumed in September. Construction involves various enhancements, such as new drainage systems and access paths, with completion of the acrylic surface expected in 2025. Funded by multiple sources, including a King County grant, the total budget for the project is $1,186,102.
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