During a recent government meeting, community concerns regarding the use and capacity of Crescent Creek Park were prominently discussed, particularly in relation to volleyball activities. Resident Steve Paris, who lives adjacent to the park, expressed alarm over the increasing number of vehicles during events, noting that on a recent occasion, over 80 cars were parked for a single Pee Wee baseball event, while volleyball courts remained underutilized.
Paris highlighted the potential for overcrowding as Gig Harbor continues to develop, urging city officials to consider the impact of future events on local traffic and parking. He emphasized the need for careful planning to avoid exacerbating existing issues in the area.
The meeting also addressed requests from community members for the expansion of volleyball facilities at Crescent Creek Park. Currently, there are two sand volleyball courts, and attendees expressed a desire for additional courts to accommodate growing interest. City officials indicated that any decisions regarding expansion would be contingent upon the completion of a master planning process for the park, which has been stalled in the past.
In a positive development, volunteers have stepped forward to provide labor and materials for the construction of new courts, including nets and sand, which could alleviate some financial burdens on the city. However, the timeline for any expansion remains uncertain, as it is tied to the broader planning efforts for the park.
The discussion also touched on the potential relocation of volleyball courts to other areas, such as the former driving range at Peninsula Gardens, which could offer additional space and facilities. Community members expressed a desire for a definitive plan to avoid the uncertainty of being shifted between locations.
Overall, the meeting underscored the community's enthusiasm for volleyball while highlighting the need for strategic planning to ensure that Crescent Creek Park can accommodate both recreational activities and local residents' concerns about traffic and parking.