Golden Rain Foundation approves new pickleball courts after community engagement

The Walnut Creek Planning Commission meeting held on March 27, 2025, focused on the growing popularity of pickleball and the need for additional courts in the Rossmore community. The meeting began with a discussion about the existing facilities, particularly the old Del Valle clubhouse and gymnasium, which had been under consideration for renovation.

During the meeting, it was noted that the gymnasium had been modified to accommodate pickleball, leading to a significant increase in participation. The board recognized that pickleball was becoming an integral part of the community's recreational offerings and that the current facilities were insufficient to meet demand.

The commission highlighted the need for outdoor courts, as the existing tennis courts were only a temporary solution. The Golden Rain Foundation board had previously authorized a project in 2019 to renovate the Creekside Tennis Courts and expand them to include seven outdoor courts. However, this plan faced challenges due to the proximity of Tice Creek, which limited development options.

Public engagement was emphasized as a crucial aspect of the planning process. The commission reported that numerous town hall events had been held to gather community input, with a recent event attracting approximately 4,500 attendees interested in the pickleball project.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the community's commitment to enhancing recreational facilities to accommodate the growing interest in pickleball, with ongoing public engagement efforts to ensure that the needs of residents are met. Further discussions and planning will continue as the commission seeks viable solutions for expanding pickleball amenities in Rossmore.