Pickleball Expansion Coming to Seaside Heights: Seaside Heights is set to enhance its recreational offerings with the addition of new pickleball courts, a move that reflects the sport’s rising popularity along the Jersey Shore. Nearly a year after the initial proposal, borough officials are making significant strides to bring more pickleball opportunities to the community.
Grant Secured for Conversion
The borough council has officially accepted a $68,000 grant aimed at converting the basketball courts located near Hugh J. Boyd Elementary School into dedicated pickleball courts.
This initiative seeks to increase public access to the sport, which has seen a marked rise in participation. Currently, Seaside Heights boasts several courts that have been adapted for pickleball play following the conversion of nearby tennis courts.
The borough had initially requested $147,000 for this pickleball project but was awarded the lower amount. Mayor Anthony Vaz confirmed that the transformation will include the complete removal of basketball markings in favor of new pickleball facilities, complete with updated equipment and court lines.
Despite this significant change, students at the elementary school will still have access to the area during recess, assuming the courts are not otherwise reserved.
Rising Demand in the Region
Local demand for pickleball courts continues to grow, with nearby Lavallette’s facilities emerging as a hotspot for players.
Toms River has also joined the movement by constructing its courts in Ortley Beach, while residents of Seaside Park have been demanding pickleball facilities to replace the site of a former elementary school on SW Central Avenue.
The funding was accepted by the Seaside Heights borough council during a recent meeting, paving the way for the town to solicit bids for the construction project.
Financial Planning and Future Outlook
“We now have an actual agreement with the state, and now our financial officer can insert it into the budget.” said Borough Administrator Christopher Vaz, emphasizing the procedural steps necessary to move forward.
The existing pickleball courts in Seaside Heights have experienced steady demand, reflecting the community’s enthusiasm for the sport. Mayor Anthony Vaz expressed optimism about the future of the new facility.
“I see it flourishing. There is a lot of demand for more space to play. Every day when I drive past our current courts, they are full.” – (Mayor Anthony Vaz)
News in Brief: Pickleball Expansion Coming to Seaside Heights
Seaside Heights officials are advancing plans to convert basketball courts near Hugh J. Boyd Elementary School into dedicated pickleball courts, fueled by a $68,000 state grant. The project, initially projected at $147,000, aims to increase public access to pickleball amid rising demand.
With successful conversions in nearby Lavallette and Toms River, the borough is ready to enhance its recreational offerings. Borough Administrator Christopher Vaz confirmed the financial agreement, while Mayor Anthony Vaz expressed confidence in the project’s potential, noting the current courts are consistently full.
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