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Commission approves Pickle Block sound curtains for Manhattan Park pickleball courts at cost not to exceed $24,600
Summary
The City Commission authorized purchase and installation of Pickle Block sound curtains on two fence lines at Manhattan Park pickleball courts to mitigate noise concerns; staff said the product is recyclable, has an approximate 15‑year lifespan and could be expanded later if needed.
The East Grand Rapids City Commission authorized the purchase and installation of Pickle Block sound curtains for the new dedicated pickleball courts at Manhattan Park for a cost not to exceed $24,600.
Parks Director Derek Melville (presenting) told commissioners the city retained Soundscape Engineering to evaluate sound impacts at the conceptual layout; the consultant recommended sound mitigation on the north and west fence lines to reduce noise directed toward nearby residences. Melville said staff reviewed multiple products and selected the Pickle Block material because it meets the consultant’s specifications, appears more durable than some alternatives, attaches with grommets to minimize gaps, and is recyclable. He described the product’s lifespan as approximately 15 years, said typical lead time for custom panels is about 4–5 weeks, and noted a standard workmanship warranty of about one year.
Public commenters supported and raised questions about the proposal. Judith Baxter said she supported the curtains but asked whether placing panels on two sides could funnel sound toward the wooded area or other adjacent homes and whether full enclosure might be preferable. Tom Miller and others said distance to the nearest house is roughly 400 feet (diagonally from the corner) and that the city will monitor effects; Melville confirmed the plan starts with north and west lines and additional panels could be added later if monitoring shows they are needed. Nancy Patterson asked whether the dark‑green material would absorb heat and create a windless hot pocket; Melville said the product is antimicrobial, can be hosed, and staff have anti‑graffiti cleaners for occasional maintenance.
Commissioners and the finance committee noted the product’s sustainability and maintenance properties. After brief discussion, the commission approved the purchase; staff said installation and future additions are possible if monitoring indicates further mitigation is warranted.
The authorization funds the initial north and west fence lines only and does not commit the city to additional panels unless the commission later approves added material.
