Park City Grapples with Pickleball Demand: Park City Municipal is exploring the possibility of leasing part of the Utah Film Studio to meet the rising demand for pickleball courts. The city council is set to discuss the proposal on Thursday, offering officials an opportunity to present an update on securing a temporary facility for the sport.
Councilmember Ed Parigian highlighted the recreation department’s plans during a prior meeting, noting the potential to use the studio space for pickleball during the winter months. Despite its growing popularity, the town faces challenges accommodating racquet sports, particularly when outdoor courts are less accessible.
Details about the proposed lease remain limited, with only sparse information on the council’s agenda. However, officials hope this short-term solution will alleviate the pressure until a permanent facility at Quinn’s Junction becomes a reality.
Addressing Long-Term Challenges
Park City’s recreation department has struggled to find sufficient space for pickleball due to the sport’s increasing popularity. Winter, in particular, amplifies the issue, as outdoor courts are often unavailable. While the Quinn’s Junction facility is developing, officials recognize the need for an interim option to keep pace with local enthusiasm for the game.
The potential lease of Utah Film Studio represents a creative approach to this issue, demonstrating the city’s commitment to balancing recreational needs with available resources. The temporary pickleball courts could provide much-needed relief to residents eager to play year-round.
Spiro Tunnel Rehabilitation Continues
In addition to the pickleball discussion, the city council may also approve a $2 million contract to advance rehabilitation work on the historic Spiro Tunnel. Located near Three Kings Drive, the tunnel serves as a crucial water source for the community.
City Manager Matt Dias emphasized the importance of the project, noting its phased approach
“This is a 100-plus-year-old tunnel that goes miles into the mountains and it’s a water source for the community,”. “So we are securitizing or entombing failing aspects over time, trying to maintain the community’s asset. This is the second phase of a three-phase process”-(Matt Dias).
Reconstruction of the tunnel’s initial 400 feet has already been completed, with the new contract covering phase two of the extensive project.
City Council Meeting Details
Thursday’s city council meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall following a closed session. Both the pickleball court proposal and the Spiro Tunnel project are expected to be key topics of discussion.
News in Brief: Park City Grapples with Pickleball Demand
Park City is considering leasing part of Utah Film Studio to create temporary pickleball courts this winter to meet high demand. Details of the proposal remain unclear but will be discussed at Thursday’s city council meeting. Separately, the council may approve a $2 million contract for phase two of the Spiro Tunnel rehabilitation, a crucial water source project. The meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.
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