Grey Highlands Council is set to build four new pickleball courts at the arena complex in Flesherton. At a meeting on December 18, council members approved a plan from the Pickleball Club of Grey Highlands to raise funds for the construction. The courts will be located on vacant land next to the Flesherton arena.
Growing Demand for Pickleball
The Pickleball Club of Grey Highlands has seen significant growth in membership over recent years, prompting the need for additional courts. Club member Doug Alton addressed the council, expressing the belief that new courts would greatly benefit the community. “The time is right to put some courts in,” Alton said, highlighting the demand for more playing space.
“We believe that having the courts will be a tremendous asset to our community.” – (Doug Alton)
Fundraising and Project Costs
The estimated cost for the project is between $150,000 and $200,000. The club plans to raise these funds through various initiatives and is exploring grant opportunities to assist with financing.
While the council approved the concept, they did not commit any financial resources at this stage. A staff report indicated that the municipality may cover 25 percent of the costs, with specific details to be discussed later.
Council’s Considerations
As part of the approval, council members emphasized the need for a full life-cycle cost report to assess ongoing maintenance and upgrade expenses. Deputy Mayor Dane Nielsen underscored the importance of understanding these implications before moving forward with construction.
“We need the asset management report to understand the full implications. We need to get that projection before we make the decision and build.” – (Dane Nielsen)
Future Planning and Facilities
Mayor Paul McQueen suggested considering lighting for the new courts during planning. He emphasized that adding lights post-construction would be an oversight. “I don’t know what all those components would cost. We want to make sure we don’t miss anything,” McQueen said, noting that proper planning could enhance the functionality of the courts.
Significance of the New Courts
The addition of four new pickleball courts reflects the growing interest in the sport within Grey Highlands. The council’s approval in principle is a positive step towards meeting community needs and fostering a more active lifestyle.
If successful, the project will not only provide more opportunities for pickleball players but also strengthen community engagement through sports. As the planning process continues, residents look forward to enhanced recreational facilities in their area.
News in Brief: Pickleball Club of Grey Highlands
Grey Highlands council has approved plans to build four new pickleball courts at the Flesherton arena complex, responding to the growing demand from the local Pickleball Club. The estimated project cost ranges from $150,000 to $200,000, with the club planning to fundraise and explore grant opportunities.
Council members emphasized the need for a life-cycle cost report for maintenance. The addition of these courts aims to enhance community engagement and promote an active lifestyle in the area, with construction plans progressing.
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