Local volunteers outline fundraising plan for pickleball courts; council discusses location and noise

River Heights — Randy Thunell presented a community proposal for new pickleball courts at the Feb. 17 council meeting, sharing layouts, cost estimates and grant options and asking the council to consider locations and funding support.

Thunell described pickleball as a rapidly growing sport and provided cost estimates for three- and four-court layouts, surface options and lighting. He identified possible funding sources including RAPZ funds and a USA Pickleball grant, and said he was willing to help lead fundraising with Mayor Wright and Councilmember Chris Milbank. Thunell estimated a 1–3 year fundraising timeline and advised budgeting above bids to cover unforeseen costs.

Residents at the meeting raised noise concerns in certain locations: Shellie Giddings urged Stewart Hill Park as a site but some residents worried about proximity to a cemetery and echoing noise from the old school and shop areas. Thunell said newer paddle materials and padded screens used in nearby Providence could reduce sound; Public Works Director Clayten Nelson noted some existing pickleball lines and recommended the council consider sound mitigation in design.

Councilmembers asked about maintenance and resurfacing intervals; Thunell said maintenance needs were similar to tennis courts and outlined resurfacing and drainage considerations in his handout. No formal action or funding commitment was made; councilmembers said they would consider RAPZ and other grant opportunities and review potential sites further.

What’s next: Volunteers and councilmembers will explore grant options and fundraising; no site selection or capital appropriation decided at the Feb. 17 meeting.