Silverton Pushes Forward with New Pickleball Courts: In a move that will significantly expand recreational options for Silverton residents, the city has secured a $750,000 state grant aimed at building six pickleball courts. The courts will be located on undeveloped city property adjacent to the Silverton Senior Center at 115 Westfield St.
Pickleball, a sport that has gained immense popularity in recent years, was identified as a critical need when the city updated its parks and recreation master plan in 2023. This new pickleball project was one of 12 selected for funding through the Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission’s Local Government Grant Program, which awarded a total of $6.7 million this year, funded by the Oregon Lottery.
A Collaborative Effort for Recreational Growth
The city’s contribution to the project includes an additional $500,000 from its parks system development charges. With an estimated total project cost of $1.25 million, Silverton’s investment reflects its commitment to meeting the recreational needs of its community.
Cory Misley, the city manager, noted that the project would go out to bid this winter, with hopes of completing construction by next summer. The project is not just about courts, though. The design also calls for the addition of a restroom building, a paved parking lot next to the dog park, new sidewalk connections, and a picnic area. Furthermore, the existing dog park will be relocated to make way for the new courts.
- State Grant Secures $750,000 for the Pickleball Courts
- City Contribution: $500,000 from Park Development Charges
- Construction is to Begin in Winter 2024, with Completion Expected by Summer 2025
The Westfield Property: A Growing Hub for Silverton
The location for these new courts is the 11.6-acre Westfield property, which the city purchased from the Silver Falls School District in 2008 for $1.3 million. The site currently includes the Silverton Senior Center, a dog park, and a skate park. While the addition of pickleball courts will improve recreational offerings, the city has broader plans for the property.
- The Westfield Property Purchased in 2008 for $1.3 Million
- A Growing Park Area with a Senior Center, Skate Park, and Dog Park
Although the new courts and other amenities like small bleachers are part of the plan, the city is also considering future uses for the remaining undeveloped land. Misley revealed that affordable housing is a potential development for this area, with initial concepts for up to 50 two- or three-story apartments under discussion.
Silverton has already partnered with Hacienda CDC, a community development corporation, to explore affordable housing, economic advancement, and educational opportunities on the site. Another key proposal is the installation of an aquifer storage and recovery system—a type of underground reservoir.
- Affordable Housing Development Concept for the Westfield Property
- Hacienda CDC Collaboration to Develop Housing and Economic Opportunities
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Westfield Property
Even without the addition of pickleball courts, the Westfield property holds much promise for Silverton’s growth. While the city has committed to creating a more recreationally rich environment, it also envisions the site as a center for housing and environmental innovation.
Misley emphasized that while there are no lights planned for the pickleball courts at this time, it remains a possibility for the future. As he humorously noted, “You can’t play pickleball without a pickleball court, but you can play pickleball during the daylight.”
- No Current Plans for Lights, But Future Expansion Possible
- The Property’s Continued Development: A Balancing Act of Recreation and Housing
News in Brief: Silverton Pushes Forward with New Pickleball Courts
Silverton has been awarded a $750,000 state parks grant to build six pickleball courts next to the senior center on Westfield St. This pickleball project, set to cost $1.25 million, also includes restrooms, parking, and a relocated dog park. Plans for the broader Westfield property include affordable housing development and an aquifer storage system. Construction on the courts is expected to begin in the winter of 2024, with completion slated for the summer of 2025.
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