Eisenhower Park Pickleball Courts: Pickleball enthusiasts in Denver are celebrating the reopening of the pickleball courts at Mamie D. Eisenhower Park after a year-long closure caused by noise complaints. Denver Parks & Recreation has taken innovative steps to address the concerns by introducing foam pickleballs, offering a quieter but equally authentic playing experience. This marks a significant moment for the growing pickleball community, with the courts reopening as part of a pilot program designed to balance the sport’s popularity with neighborhood concerns.
A Quiet Revolution
The closure of the Eisenhower Park courts in November last year stemmed from the loud “thwack” of traditional plastic pickleballs, which drew complaints from nearby residents. To address this, Denver Parks & Recreation now mandates the use of foam pickleballs on all four courts.
- Foam Pickleballs in Play: The courts exclusively use the Librarian Foam Pickleball, developed by Gamma Sports. These balls significantly reduce noise while retaining the bounce and feel of traditional pickleballs.
- Balanced Innovation: “We’ve had to adjust, but these foam balls are a solution that lets us keep the courts open while being mindful of the surrounding neighborhood,” said Stephanie Figueroa, spokesperson for Parks & Rec.
The Pilot Program
The reopening on October 25 marked the start of a pilot program to test the foam balls’ effectiveness in reducing noise. Despite challenges like winter weather, the courts are now accessible to players when conditions allow, offering a much-needed outlet for the pickleball community.
- Weather Impact: Cold conditions have limited play, but the courts remain open as long as they are clear and the adjacent Eisenhower Recreation Center is operational.
- Community Engagement: The closure had dealt a blow to local pickleball enthusiasts, who rallied for solutions to resume play. Jolon Clark, Denver Parks & Recreation’s executive director and an avid pickleball player, played a key role in reconciling the needs of residents and players.
A Balanced Approach
The reopening is a testament to the sport’s rapid rise in popularity and the city’s commitment to fostering it in a way that respects the surrounding community. Initially, there were considerations to convert the pickleball courts into tennis courts, but the pilot program with foam balls was introduced as a more balanced approach.
“Pickleball has seen a huge surge in popularity,” Figueroa noted. “We’re working to make sure that everyone—whether they’re players or neighbors—can enjoy a harmonious experience.”
News in Brief: Eisenhower Park Pickleball Courts
Eisenhower Park’s pickleball courts in Denver are back open after a year-long closure due to noise complaints. Denver Parks & Recreation has introduced the Librarian Foam Pickleball, designed to reduce noise. The pilot program began on October 25, allowing for quieter gameplay while balancing the needs of both residents and pickleball enthusiasts. Weather has limited access, but the courts remain available when conditions permit.
ALSO READ: Southeast Sportsplex to Bring Pickleball Courts and Fitness to the South End