The pickleball community in North Platte, Nebraska, has reason to celebrate as construction on Cody Park’s new pickleball courts near completion. Located in the south portion of Cody Park near Cody Pool, these courts are part of the city’s ongoing commitment to improving parks and recreation facilities. While construction will officially resume in the spring, city officials have confirmed that the courts are already playable.
“Well, believe it or not, they are playable right now. We’re going to resume construction early in the spring. Hopefully, it’ll be finished up by late spring, early summer,” said Lyle Minshull, North Platte Parks and Recreation Director.
“It’s a wonderful thing, now we have a total of 14 pickleball courts, along with eight good tennis courts.” – (Lyle Minshull)
A Growing Sport in North Platte
Pickleball, a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has rapidly gained popularity nationwide. Its appeal spans all ages, making it an accessible and engaging activity for families, seniors, and competitive athletes. With the addition of these 14 new courts at Cody Park, North Platte is positioning itself as a hub for pickleball players.
The courts are part of broader recreational improvements funded by a tax enacted in 2022. Voters in North Platte approved the measure to upgrade critical community spaces, including the North Platte Recreation Center and Cody Pool. Recognizing the rising popularity of pickleball, city leaders chose to expand and enhance existing tennis facilities by integrating new pickleball courts.
A Boost for Local Players and Events
The completion of the Cody Park courts will offer exciting opportunities for casual and competitive play. Local pickleball groups and organizations now have access to state-of-the-art courts for regular matches, tournaments, and community events.
This project reflects a growing trend across the United States, where cities are investing in pickleball infrastructure to meet increasing demand. For longtime players in the area, the new courts are a dream come true.
The 14 courts mean that North Platte can host larger tournaments, attracting players from across Nebraska and even other states. Pickleball events like these bring excitement to the city while boosting local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Expert Insights on the Expansion
City officials believe that this investment is about more than just recreation—it’s about improving quality of life and providing spaces where the community can connect.
Local recreation leaders expect the new facilities to inspire more residents to pick up a paddle and try the sport. For those unfamiliar with pickleball, its simple rules and smaller court size make it an easier entry point than traditional tennis. Beginners can learn quickly, while experienced players enjoy the fast-paced, strategic aspects of the game.
What’s Next for Cody Park?
While the courts are playable now, final touches will be completed in spring 2024. By early summer, residents can look forward to fully finished courts, complete with amenities to enhance the playing experience.
The new pickleball courts, along with the improvements at Cody Pool and the North Platte Recreation Center, represent a major step forward for North Platte’s parks and recreation. City leaders hope that these efforts will foster greater community involvement, healthy lifestyles, and economic benefits for the area.
As North Platte embraces the pickleball rise, players of all skill levels can prepare to enjoy top-notch facilities that meet modern standards. Whether for friendly games or competitive tournaments, the Cody Park courts are sure to become a favorite spot for pickleball players throughout the region.
For now, all eyes may be on the festive holiday display in Cody Park, but come spring, it’s clear that the new pickleball courts will be the center of attention.
News in Brief: Cody Park’s New Pickleball Courts Near Completion
North Platte’s pickleball community is celebrating as Cody Park’s new courts near completion. Located near Cody Pool, the 14 courts—part of a city-funded recreation upgrade—are already playable, with construction set to finish by late spring.
The addition positions North Platte as a hub for casual play and tournaments, boosting community engagement and local businesses. Officials see the project as a major step in promoting active lifestyles and fostering pickleball’s rapid growth.
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