Corona Council Faces Growing Demand for Public Pickleball Courts Amid Community Support

A passionate plea for more pickleball courts dominated the recent Corona City Council meeting, as community members rallied for the construction of new facilities at El Cerrito Park. With pickleball rapidly becoming the fastest-growing sport in America, residents expressed frustration over the city's current lack of dedicated courts, which they argue is hindering the sport's expansion and community engagement.

Michael Fenius, representing the Santiago High School instrumental music program, opened the meeting with a token of appreciation for the council, but it was the subsequent discussions about pickleball that captured the audience's attention. Jennifer, a Jurupa Valley resident, highlighted the overwhelming demand for pickleball courts, noting that neighboring Eastvale recently opened eight courts to accommodate the sport's popularity. She urged the council to reconsider plans for new public amenities, emphasizing the need for accessible recreational spaces for all community members.

Desiree Ramirez, vice president of the Corona Chamber of Commerce, also chimed in, promoting the upcoming "Taste of Corona" event while acknowledging the importance of supporting local businesses and community activities. However, the focus quickly shifted back to pickleball, with multiple speakers sharing personal stories about how the sport has fostered connections and improved mental health.

Larry Burrell, the USA Pickleball ambassador for Corona, called for the council to unpause the construction of new courts, arguing that public facilities are essential for community cohesion. He pointed out that while private options exist, they do not provide the same inclusive environment that public parks do.

The meeting also saw voices from the tennis community, with residents like Ryan Tran and Tyler Sundberg advocating for the preservation of existing tennis courts. They expressed concern that converting these spaces to pickleball courts would diminish resources for tennis players, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that accommodates both sports.

As the meeting concluded, the pickleball community's call for action was clear: they seek not just recognition but tangible support from the city council to build new facilities that reflect the sport's growing popularity and the community's diverse needs. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining the future of recreational sports in Corona, as residents await a decision that could reshape their local landscape.