PIEDMONT — Pickleball courts at Beach and Hampton fields may be striped and ready for play in early April, recreation Director Sara Lillevand told the recreation commission at its recent meeting.
The popular sport has taken hold in the city, with enthusiastic proponents and some opposition from neighbors who are concerned about noise generated from chatter and clacking paddles.
The City Council at its March 4 meeting had agreed to an eight-month trial for the sport.
“If there proves to be problems, we can suspend (pickleball activities). But players are excited about the sport that serves an underserved age group” (older residents), Lillevand said.
Players are currently playing on courts at Piedmont Middle School, with limited hours when school is out.
“We have received positive feedback overall,” chair Steve Roland said.
Councilwoman Jen Cavenaugh told the panel that “(We have) embraced it with care and thought. It came together quickly and will evolve as we go thanks to the skills of the commissioners.”
Lillevand reported that the recreation center tennis courts are on track for renovation during summer break. Piedmont Recreation Facilities Organization (PRFO) is spearheading a fund drive to help pay for the repairs. Their goal is to raise $500,000 to enhance improvements, such as bleachers, new LED lights and more. The city has approved a budget for resurfacing, new net posts and nets, new fencing and drainage improvements. The courts will be named for inspirational Piedmont High tennis coach Corey Reich, who suffers from ALS (visit prfo.org/corey for details).
“Renewing the facility is fresh and exciting,” commissioner Glyn Burge said.
In other business: Lillevand discussed ongoing plans for improvements to Coaches Field to expand playing time for under-14 soccer players. The conceptual master plan includes improvements to artificial turf; lighting; improved parking and access to Kennelly skate park; a small picnic area; and a pedestrian access point off Moraga avenue. Lighting at Coaches Field has been an issue of contention by neighbors for many years. Public meetings will continue to be held regarding the field. The next recreation commission meeting will be April 25 at City Hall.
