Carson City Boosts Pickleball: Carson City has taken a significant step toward becoming a top destination for pickleball enthusiasts. On Thursday, the Carson City Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a $1.07 million contract with Spanish Springs Construction Inc., setting in motion a plan to replace two worn-down tennis courts at Mills Park with six new post-tension concrete pickleball courts.
This project, supported by passionate players and a dedicated local nonprofit, received overwhelming applause from the boardroom audience. Parks and Recreation Director Jennifer Budge announced that demolition could start this winter, with the new courts expected to open by late spring or early summer, weather permitting.
Acknowledging Local Champions for the Cause
Carson City Mayor Lori Bagwell publicly acknowledged the contributions of Dave Whitefield and Juana Beguelin, who have championed the expansion of pickleball in the city. “I really want to thank David and Juana for spearheading this effort. You’ve been teaching, fundraising, and even working on your hands and knees to repair cracks,” she said, underscoring the couple’s dedication to building a pickleball community.
Whitefield and Beguelin, instrumental in the project, first campaigned six years ago through the Foundation for Carson City Parks and Recreation, a local nonprofit, to convert two other tennis courts in Mills Park into eight pickleball courts. Completed in 2019, that initial project relied heavily on volunteer labor and fundraising. Following Thursday’s approval, the couple toured the existing courts with the Appeal, noting that while the courts are well-used, they aren’t ideal for tournaments. The new courts will fill that gap, allowing Mills Park to host tournament play and increase its appeal to visitors and residents alike.
A Sport for All Ages and Growing Demand
For Whitefield and Beguelin, pickleball represents more than a pastime; it’s a community endeavor that spans generations. “We’ve been very passionate,” Beguelin said, noting that players ranging from age 5 to 80 regularly use the courts. “It’s a sport that levels things out,” Whitefield added, explaining the broad appeal of pickleball, which has become the world’s fastest-growing sport.
The addition of these six courts will increase the park’s outdoor courts to 14, creating space to accommodate growing demand.
Community Funding and a Vision for Future Upgrades
The project, backed by $421,850 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, will benefit from the durability of post-tension concrete, designed to prevent cracks and improve safety. Whitefield and Beguelin are actively fundraising through the foundation to provide additional amenities like shade structures and benches for players.
While the project was ineligible for the recent $14.9 million grant through the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act due to ARPA funding, the community’s continued efforts have set the stage for a premier pickleball venue in Carson City.
News in Brief: Carson City Boosts Pickleball
Carson City’s Board of Supervisors approved a $1.07 million contract to add six new pickleball courts at Mills Park. This expansion, supported by community members Dave Whitefield and Juana Beguelin, will convert old tennis courts into tournament-ready pickleball courts, increasing the park’s capacity to 14 courts. The project, which could begin this winter, received backing from ARPA funds and has inspired ongoing community fundraising to add player amenities. These new courts aim to elevate Carson City’s status as a pickleball destination for players of all ages.
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