Westbrook Welcomes The Picklr: In an exciting development for pickleball players in Westbrook, Maine, The Picklr is set to transform the former Shaw supermarket site into the largest indoor pickleball facility in the Northeast. With a planned opening at the end of December or early January, the facility promises to elevate the local sports scene.
Expansion into Maine
Franchisee Jeff Maguire expressed enthusiasm for the new venture, highlighting the growing popularity of pickleball.
“We’re ready to take off. We’re pumped.” – (Jeff Maguire)
“We saw a great opportunity to add a sport that is dominating.” he stated, adding that he and his team are “pumped” about the project’s potential.
“We’re under construction right now.” – (Jeff Maguire)
The Picklr will feature 19 pickleball courts, including three championship courts, catering to competitive players and casual participants.
Located across from Rock Row at Westbrook Crossing, the pickleball facility is strategically positioned near Exit 48 of the Maine Turnpike. This prime location is expected to attract players from the surrounding regions.
Progress and Community Impact
According to Jennie Franceschi, the director of Westbrook Planning and Code Enforcement, the project has been moving forward smoothly, as The Picklr’s plans do not require Planning Board approval, only building permits.
“We’ve just been working with their contractors at this point, which on a renovation like this is normal.” – (Jennie Franceschi)
Jeff Maguire is keen to stay involved in the progress, planning a site visit on October 24 to assess ongoing demolition and renovation efforts. His connection to the area runs deep; he previously opened a Crumbl Cookies outlet in Rock Row and has family ties in Maine.
Facilities and Membership
The Picklr will operate daily from 6 a.m. to midnight, aiming to employ around 25 staff members, including part-time and full-time positions for coaches. The pickleball facility will boast a range of amenities, including a pro shop retail center, lounge, community room, and locker rooms equipped with showers and restrooms.
For those eager to join, The Picklr is offering a special founders membership rate for the first 150 sign-ups at $99 per month, followed by $109 for the next 100 and $119 thereafter. The pickleball facility will host pickleball leagues and open drop-in sessions, with plans for a spring tournament already in the works.
Jeff Maguire emphasized the inclusive nature of pickleball, stating, “Everyone from kids to seniors can play pickleball. We want people to enjoy it.” He believes the sport fosters community and friendship, highlighting that “you don’t have to be an athlete to play.”
News in Brief: Westbrook Welcomes The Picklr
The Picklr is set to open its first Maine location in Westbrook, transforming the former Shaw supermarket into the largest indoor pickleball facility in the Northeast. With 19 pickleball courts, including three championship courts, the facility aims to cater to players of all ages.
Franchisee Jeff Maguire anticipates hiring 25 employees and has plans for various amenities, including a pro shop and community lounge. Special membership rates are available for early sign-ups, with leagues and tournaments expected to draw pickleball players from across the region.
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