Temecula launches badminton pilot at CRC with teen program, to be evaluated after summer

The Temecula Community Services Department started a pilot badminton program March 1 at the Ronald J. Parks Community Recreation Center (CRC) to gauge demand and community impact.

Staff said the program follows the city’s open-gym model used for adult basketball and volleyball and includes a teen-only court area to avoid mixed teen/adult play for liability reasons. Temecula residents attend at no cost; nonresidents pay $3 per visit. New participants sign up for a CRC membership with a $1 processing fee that is valid for about a year.

Sports Division staff said equipment and nets were purchased for the program and that existing pickleball court lines at the CRC match badminton dimensions closely, so the city converted courts by adding nets. Staff reported initial attendance highs—one week with 17 teens and 24 adults—but noted numbers dipped after spring break and when wait times grew because the program initially had only two nets.

Staff said they plan to add a third net to reduce wait times and will reassess program viability at the end of the summer based on attendance and resource use. Commissioners asked about an optimal weekly attendance; staff said consistency and sustainable usage (roughly comparable to other popular open-gym programs) would guide any decision to continue or discontinue the pilot.

The program currently runs Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and staff said they will adapt scheduling if youth leagues or other priority uses require gym space in the fall.

Commissioners thanked staff for the update and encouraged continued monitoring of participation before recommending permanent program changes.