Pickleball’s Rising Tide in Baldwin County: Baldwin County has greenlit an ambitious renovation plan, setting aside a part of a $2 million grant to enhance local recreational facilities. This initiative includes the construction of 20 new pickleball courts, complete with lighting, following a strong push from community advocates.
Community Advocacy Sparks Change
The momentum for this renovation began when residents approached county commissioners, voicing their desire for more pickleball courts. Barbara Roberts, an avid pickleball player at Walter B. Williams Park, emphasized the growing interest in the sport.
While she didn’t always play, the park, traditionally used for baseball and softball, began to see a shift three years ago as more individuals discovered pickleball.
“I come through here a lot and really didn’t see anybody.” Barbara Roberts reflected on her early experiences. She noted that although she previously attended events at the park, her first exposure to pickleball sparked her interest. “Everyone is so friendly and helped you out with it.” she added, showing the community’s welcoming nature.
Safety Concerns Prompt Action
However, the enthusiasm for the sport has come with challenges. Barbara Roberts pointed out that the existing courts are in disrepair, with several cracks leading to injuries among players.
“We’ve had several accidents out here. One just recently went after a ball and fell face forward,” she explained, highlighting the urgency for improvements.
Recognizing the need for safe playing conditions, Barbara Roberts and her fellow players urged the commissioners to prioritize the development of new courts. Their advocacy bore fruit when, on Monday, the county commissioners approved the construction of 20 new pickleball courts with lighting, marking a significant victory for the community.
Growth of the Sport in Baldwin County
Jeff Moore, president of the pickleball club in Milledgeville, shared his optimism regarding the future of the sport in Baldwin County.
“The sport continued to grow. We knew we were gaining momentum with the number of people coming to the community to play.” – (Jeff Moore)
Through persistent discussions with county officials and a successful grant application, the vision for new courts became a reality.
The park is also undergoing other improvements, including the addition of a mountain bike trail and a water park currently under construction. With these enhancements, the local pickleball community hopes to attract even more players to Baldwin County, fostering a vibrant recreational environment.
News in Brief: Pickleball’s Rising Tide in Baldwin County
Baldwin County has approved a $2 million renovation plan that includes building 20 new pickleball courts with lighting. Community advocates, led by Barbara Roberts, voiced the need for improved pickleball facilities due to safety concerns with existing courts.
Jeff Moore, president of the Milledgeville pickleball club, expressed optimism about the sport’s growth. The park will also feature a new mountain bike trail and a water park.
