The University Park City Council meeting on November 5, 2024, focused on several key issues, including the proposed e-bike ordinance and noise reduction strategies for pickleball courts at Williams Park.

One of the primary discussions involved a motion to develop an e-bike ordinance that aligns with regulations in nearby Highland Park. Council members expressed support for this initiative, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with the Highland Park Independent School District. The motion passed unanimously, with council members looking forward to the proposed regulations.

The council also addressed ongoing complaints regarding noise from pickleball courts at Williams Park. Parks and Recreation Director Sean Draughtson presented findings from a year-long investigation into noise mitigation strategies. The council discussed the potential installation of a state-of-the-art baffling system, which has shown to reduce noise levels significantly in other communities. Draughtson noted that a similar system in Manchester by the Sea achieved a 16-decibel reduction. The proposed plan includes removing existing backboards that contribute to noise echo and possibly adding a fountain to create white noise, although the estimated cost for these improvements ranges from $40,000 to $60,000.

Council members expressed gratitude for the efforts made by staff and the youth advisory committee in researching solutions. They also discussed the importance of community feedback and the need for a balanced approach to address both the interests of pickleball players and nearby residents.

In addition, the council revisited the temporary two-way traffic designation on Rosedale Avenue, which was implemented to facilitate access to Snyder Plaza during construction. Residents raised safety concerns about the change, prompting the council to consider further discussions and potential adjustments to the traffic configuration.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the council's commitment to addressing community concerns through collaborative efforts and informed decision-making. The next steps include further research on the e-bike ordinance and continued evaluation of noise reduction measures at Williams Park.