Pickleball Coming to Mashpee: William Russell, a local business owner and co-owner of the Pineapple Caper Cafe in Osterville, has proposed the creation of an indoor pickleball facility, named Island Pickle, to the Economic Development and Industrial Corporation at a town hall meeting on January 30. The proposed facility would be located on a 3.59-acre parcel at 51 Evergreen Circle, off Route 130.
Russell envisions Island Pickle as a central hub for pickleball players in the region. The nearest facility of this scale is in Hanover, and Russell believes his facility could draw new customers who will also visit nearby attractions like Mashpee Commons or Cape Cod Coffee.
Facility Features and Hours of Operation
The planned 35,000-square-foot complex would house 10 pickleball courts, eight Trackman golf simulators, a pro shop, a restaurant, and a sports-themed bar. It would be open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., with extended weekend hours and food service from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Russell highlighted that the facility would not only serve as a sports destination but also benefit local businesses in the area.
Economic Impact and Community Support
As a commercial real estate specialist with Commercial Realty Advisors, Russell underscored the economic benefits the facility could bring to Mashpee. “A rising tide lifts all boats, and I think I’m here to rise a tide,” he said, emphasizing that Island Pickle could boost the local economy by drawing in pickleball and golf players.
While concerns about pickleball’s noise have arisen in other communities, Russell believes the indoor nature of the proposed facility will help mitigate those issues. He also mentioned that Island Pickle would create jobs and provide a new recreational outlet for residents and visitors.
Zoning Changes and Permitting Process
The project is currently under contract, but it is pending local permitting and zoning approval. As the lot is currently in an industrial zone, which does not permit indoor recreational facilities, the proposal requires a zoning bylaw amendment. The Mashpee Planning Board has submitted a draft zoning article to authorize indoor recreation facilities in the area for consideration at the next town meeting.
Russell had considered other sites, such as Capetown Plaza in Hyannis, before settling on the Evergreen Circle location in Mashpee. Island Pickle, with its expert pickleball and golf staff, is set to be a premier sports destination in the region.
News in Brief: Pickleball Coming to Mashpee
William Russell has proposed building an indoor pickleball facility called Island Pickle in Mashpee. The 35,000-square-foot complex would feature 10 pickleball courts, Trackman golf simulators, a pro shop, and a sports-themed bar. Russell aims to create a hub for pickleball players, boosting local businesses like Mashpee Commons.
The project requires a zoning bylaw amendment to proceed, and a draft zoning article has been submitted for consideration. If approved, Island Pickle could provide economic benefits to the region, attract sports fans, and mitigate noise concerns tied to outdoor pickleball play.
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