Crown Park Pickleball Courts: The Camas Parks and Recreation Commission has turned down several noise-reduction options aimed at addressing complaints from residents about noise from the pickleball courts at Crown Park. This decision came during the Commission’s meeting on December 5.
Community Concerns
At the meeting, Bryan Rachal, acting as the City’s interim parks director, presented various noise-abatement products after receiving complaints from Crown Park neighbors. Parks Commission Chairwoman Ellen Burton noted that the commission sought to explore these options to mitigate the noise disturbances from pickleball games.
“There were concerns (from some) of these neighbors about … the noise from the game itself. We wanted to look into some options, so that’s what we’re doing today.” – (Ellen Burton)
Rachal revealed that while he had researched potential solutions, no specific product could guarantee a reduction to a certain decibel level.
Proposed Solutions and Costs
Rachal presented several noise-mitigation options to the Commission, including:
- A glass wall replacing the existing fence for approximately $114,000.
- A screen product to install on the current fence costs about $26,000.
- Two types of “sound seal” panels range from $60,000 to $77,000.
- Other fence panels that the City could install for about $26,000.
- Shrubberies and quieter pickleball paddles and balls, are mainly practice tools and not intended for regular games.
“None of these options (is) particularly cheap. The cheapest options are (around) $26,000, but when we’re talking about maintenance and the ability to take care of it, it’s a pretty big thing.” – (Bryan Rachal)
He also mentioned that pickleball equipment may become quieter in the future, and the city might consider building dedicated courts away from residential areas.
“My question to the Commission is: ‘Do we want to spend large amounts of money on something that may not be needed in a few years?’” – (Bryan Rachal)
Past Decisions and Future Steps
Earlier this year, city leaders chose not to add new pickleball striping to the sports court in Crown Park but decided to maintain the existing shared tennis-pickleball courts. This decision followed numerous complaints from nearby residents about noise levels.
During the December meeting, the Parks Commission ultimately decided against moving forward with noise-abatement solutions. Instead, they will explore enforcement options for parking violations and loud music complaints at Crown Park.
The outcome of this meeting reflects ongoing tensions between community members who enjoy pickleball and those affected by the noise. Moving forward, the Commission may consider alternative measures to balance recreational use with residents’ concerns.
“I want to be sensitive to the needs of the neighborhood and we may (need to) look at the hours (pickleball players are allowed to use the courts) again. But we know there’s a huge need for pickleball (courts). When we do our PROS (parks, recreation and open space) plan again, I know that will probably be a high priority for our community.” – (Burton)
News in Brief: Crown Park Pickleball Courts
The Camas Parks and Recreation Commission rejected several noise-reduction options to address complaints from residents regarding noise from pickleball courts at Crown Park during a meeting on December 5. Proposed solutions included installing a glass wall, sound panels, and quieter equipment, with costs ranging from $26,000 to $114,000.
The commission decided to explore enforcement options for parking violations and loud music instead. This decision highlights the ongoing conflict between pickleball enthusiasts and nearby residents concerned about noise disturbances.
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