Palo Alto Pickleball Club proposes expansion to meet soaring demand at Mitchell Park

The Parks and Recreation Commission of Palo Alto convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss the growing popularity of pickleball and its implications for the community. The meeting highlighted the significant increase in participation and demand for pickleball, particularly at Mitchell Park, which is becoming a central hub for the sport in the Bay Area.

The session began with a report from Tim Schipper, who noted that the early start of spring lessons has contributed to a rise in youth participation. Following this, the commission received a presentation on the current state of pickleball in Palo Alto, emphasizing its rapid growth. With 50 million participants nationwide and a 46% increase in the past year, pickleball is now the third most popular sport in the United States. The presentation underscored the sport's accessibility, low cost, and social benefits, making it appealing to a diverse range of players.

The Palo Alto Pickleball Club, which manages the Mitchell Park courts, reported overwhelming demand, with membership growing by 25% annually. Currently, the club has 1,400 members, with 58% being Palo Alto residents. However, the courts are often at or beyond capacity, leading to long wait times for players. The club is exploring the possibility of expanding the number of courts from 15 to 23 to accommodate the increasing interest.

Concerns were raised during the meeting regarding the potential expansion, particularly about parking and the impact on existing facilities. Some community members expressed apprehension about the loss of tennis courts and the need for adequate parking solutions. Commissioner Kleinhouse noted that the discussion of expansion had not been formally agendaized, suggesting that more community input would be beneficial.

Despite these concerns, the commission recognized the positive impact of pickleball on community health and social connections. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further investigate the proposed expansion and to continue fostering the partnership between the city and the pickleball community. The commission aims to address the growing demand while ensuring that the needs of all community members are considered.