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Stonebrook neighbors urge removal of pickleball lines at Rainier Trails; council opts to wait for new Garrett Park courts
Summary
Neighbors told the council pickleball lines added at Rainier Trails Park in May 2025 have produced daily noise that affects homes as close as about 30 feet. The parks board recommended removing the lines; the council generally agreed to wait until new courts at Garrett Park are resurfaced before removing lines.
Neighbors of Rainier Trails Park urged the Enumclaw City Council on April 27 to remove pickleball striping that was added to an existing court last year, saying the noise from daily play has directly affected homes located about 30 feet away.
Richard Gardine, speaking for Stonebrook neighbors, said the lines were added in May 2025 and that a pickleball group has used the court daily through the summer months, producing sustained noise that has significantly affected nearby residents. Gardine noted the parks board passed a motion recommending removal of the pickleball lines and said funding is available to restore the court to tennis use.
Council discussion made clear members were sympathetic to neighbors’ concerns but divided over timing. Several council members said they did not want to remove existing lines before the city’s new Garrett Park courts are resurfaced and ready; staff told the council Garrett Park work is expected to start May 18. Council member Storton said the new Garrett facility will offer seven courts and argued that, with that capacity, “I don't see a reason why the lines at Rainier Trails shouldn't be removed.” Other members cautioned that paying to remove lines now could be wasteful if resurfacing and new courts mitigate demand.
One council member suggested postponing any removal until the Garrett Park work is complete so residents who currently use Rainier Trails will have an alternative. The council agreed to discuss the item again at its May 18 meeting after seeing how the new courts affect usage.
The council did not adopt any ordinance or formal action at the April 27 meeting. The parks board recommendation to remove lines and the Stonebrook neighbors’ request will be revisited after the Garrett Park resurfacing begins.
