Fletcher’s Pickleball Courts Devastated By Hurricane Helene: When Tropical Storm Helene hit Western North Carolina in late September 2024, it left its mark on the newly built pickleball courts in Fletcher. The storm though downgraded from a hurricane, still unleashed significant winds and heavy rainfall that caused substantial damage to the area’s recreational facilities.
Extent of the Damage
The primary damage to the Fletcher pickleball courts was to the fencing, which was severely impacted by the strong winds. In addition to the fencing, some surface damage to the courts was also reported, though it may be possible to patch or repair the surfaces in the short term. Despite the relatively localized damage, the repair process will still be time-consuming and costly.
- Fencing and Surface Damage: Most of the damage was to the fencing, though some surface areas will need repairs.
- Estimated Repair Costs: The total cost of repairs is expected to exceed $40,000.
- Long Road to Recovery: Full repairs will likely take several months, as the town must go through the formal bidding process for the work, and there may be a wait for FEMA reimbursement.
Fletcher’s pickleball courts, which opened in 2023, are part of the town’s efforts to expand recreational offerings for the community. The damage from Helene is a reminder of how vulnerable even newly established facilities can be to extreme weather events.
The Impact of Helene on Pickleball Facilities
While Fletcher’s pickleball courts are not the only facilities to sustain damage from Helene, they represent a key community investment that was intended to foster recreational engagement.
The storm’s effects on the courts bring attention to the ongoing challenges local governments face when balancing infrastructure improvements with the unpredictable nature of severe weather events.
The Road to Recovery
Repairs to the courts are expected to take several months, with Fletcher Town Manager Mark Biberdorf noting that the damage will need to be bid out for repair, which could delay the reopening. The hope is to minimize downtime for the local pickleball community, but that depends on the process of securing the necessary funds and contractors to complete the work.
- Rebuilding the Community Asset: The pickleball courts were an important addition to Fletcher’s recreational offerings, and repairs are essential to returning the facility to full use.
- Challenges in Funding and Timing: The repair process will involve careful planning, including FEMA reimbursement considerations, which may slow down the pace of restoration.
News in Brief: Fletcher’s Pickleball Courts Devastated By Hurricane Helene
Tropical Storm Helene severely impacted Fletcher’s newly opened pickleball courts, with significant fence damage and some surface concerns. Repair costs are projected to exceed $40,000, and the process will take several months. The storm’s damage serves as a reminder of the challenges in maintaining recreational facilities in the face of unpredictable weather events.
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