Troy City Council approves construction of new pickleball courts at Firefighters Park

The Troy City Council convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, with a significant focus on the development of new pickleball courts at Firefighters Park. The meeting highlighted the growing demand for pickleball in the community and the city’s commitment to enhancing recreational facilities.

City officials noted that the project had been a long-standing request from residents, and they expressed satisfaction with the city’s financial position, which allowed for the allocation of funds towards this leisure service project. The council had previously prioritized infrastructure projects, but due to prudent fiscal management, they were now able to proceed with the pickleball initiative.

During the meeting, staff presented findings from a comprehensive review of 25 local pickleball court sites, identifying essential features such as restroom facilities and shade structures. The Firefighters Park was selected as the optimal location for the new courts, as it is already developed and can accommodate the necessary amenities without incurring additional costs.

Community engagement was a crucial aspect of the planning process. Officials reached out to neighboring residents to address potential noise concerns associated with the sport. Feedback from the community was largely positive, with suggestions such as the addition of wind screens being incorporated into the project plans. A solution was also found for the Troy Cowboys, a local football organization, which will receive an irrigated soccer field in exchange for the space used for the pickleball courts.

The council set a completion date for the project of June 30, 2025, emphasizing the urgency and importance of the initiative. Liquidated damages were included in the contractor's agreement to ensure timely completion. Discussions also covered operational aspects, such as how the courts would be managed and utilized during the off-season, with plans for them to remain open in favorable weather conditions.

The council unanimously approved the resolution to award the construction contract for the pickleball courts, reflecting a strong consensus among members regarding the project's significance. Council members expressed gratitude for the community's involvement and the collaborative efforts that led to this development.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city’s responsiveness to resident needs and the successful navigation of budgetary constraints to enhance recreational opportunities in Troy. The new pickleball courts are expected to significantly increase the availability of dedicated play spaces, addressing the growing popularity of the sport within the community.