Title
Pickleball Noise Guidelines Briefing
Recommended Action
Information only. No action requested.
Report
Issue:
Receive update on status of pickleball noise complaints in other cities and what guidelines are being considered to avoid court closures and potential litigation.
Staff Contact:
Sarah Giannobile; Associate Planner; Parks, Arts and Recreation; 360.753.8020
Presenter(s):
Sarah Giannobile; Parks Planner
Background and Analysis:
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports and more cities are trying to accommodate the demand by adding opportunities to play by either adding lines to existing tennis courts or adding new pickleball court complexes. With the addition of more pickleball courts comes an increase in potential noise complaints/violations and cities are grappling with how to find a path forward. Some cities have closed courts while others have designed strategies to reduce noise levels to help keep existing courts open. Many cities have created guidelines for locating future courts.
Olympia Parks is following these examples and other authorities to see how best to move forward.
Comprehensive Plan or Parks, Arts & Recreation Plan Connection:
Parks, Arts & Recreation Plan: GR1 Unique facilities, public art, events, and recreational programming encourage social interaction, foster inclusive community building, and enhance the visual character and livability of Olympia; GR9 Olympians enjoy lifelong happiness and wellness; GR10 Community members gather and recreate together.
Parks Plan (pg. 113): Proposed Action: As parks are developed, dedicated Pickleball courts will be considered during the design process. This plan also budgets funds for a Phase 1 Athletic Field complex project at Yelm Highway Community Park in 2024. Pickleball courts are likely amenities for that project, as well as at a future neighborhood park at the Lilly Road parcel. Because of the numerous community requests for Pickleball lines on tennis courts, the Department will add painted lines on the remaining tennis courts in Olympia parks (as time and resources permit) to allow for both uses on courts. Court courtesy signage will also be developed to promote sharing and time limits on courts.
Climate Analysis:
N/A
Equity Analysis:
Considering impacts to surrounding neighborhoods as it could impact demographic groups differently.
The core group of pickleball players are 50+ and is growing in other age groups. We want to ensure our park system is providing recreation opportunities for all age groups.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
N/A
Options:
Information only.
Financial Impact:
N/A
Attachments: