Warren Park’s brand new Pickleball Courts: The newly constructed pickleball courts at Packard Park in Warren have officially opened, marking a significant enhancement for the local sports community. The project, completed earlier this week, has generated excitement among residents eager to engage in the fast-growing sport.
Community Impact
Marcy Chizmar, an avid pickleball player who participates in the game five to seven days a week, expressed her enthusiasm for the new facilities. “It’s a great thing for the community. A great thing.” she stated, highlighting the social benefits that accompany the sport.
“It’s great exercise, and it’s fun, and it’s addictive and it’s very social, too. So it’s not just the physical exercise but it’s making good friends, and the people are really good people.” she added, emphasizing the community aspect that pickleball fosters.
New Features and Upgrades
On Friday, Marcy Chizmar and fellow player Ronjon Barua put the new pickleball courts to the test, sharing their impressions. “It grips well and everything is bright. Definitely helps to keep the ball where it’s going, the control.” Ronjon Barua remarked, noting the quality of the playing surface.
The renovation transformed the area from solely tennis courts to a multifaceted facility, now featuring three tennis courts alongside eight dedicated pickleball courts. The upgrades included a new surface, paint, posts, nets, and fencing—an investment aimed at enriching recreational opportunities for residents.
Community Engagement
Mayor Doug Franklin highlighted the proactive involvement of the pickleball community, noting that local players have already begun maintaining the pickleball courts.
“There’s a group that’s already coming here early in the morning and playing. They’re actually maintaining and blowing the leaves off, so that’s great because pickleballers take pride into these facilities.” – (Doug Franklin)
The total cost for the new pickleball courts amounted to $645,000, funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, which also covered the improvements made to the tennis courts.
“With the influx of ARP dollars, there was an opportunity to create some pickleball courts and do something unique for our community, so we took advantage of it.” – (Doug Franklin)
Growing Popularity
The demand for additional pickleball courts has been evident, with Marcy Chizmar noting the sport’s rapid growth.
“We’ve wanted more courts for a long time because the sport is growing in leaps and bounds, so we need more places to play.” – (Marcy Chizmar)
As winter approaches, Doug Franklin confirmed that, weather permitting, the nets at the new pickleball courts will remain in place for the next three to four weeks before they are taken down for the season.
News in Brief: Warren Park’s Brand New Pickleball Courts
Warren Park has opened new pickleball courts at Packard Park, enhancing recreational opportunities for the community. Completed earlier this week, the project includes eight new courts alongside three tennis courts, funded by $645,000 in ARPA funds.
Local players have already begun maintaining the pickleball facilities, reflecting the sport’s growing popularity. Mayor Doug Franklin anticipates the nets will remain in place for three to four weeks before winter.
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