Residents press South Fayette commissioners for two more tennis courts at Fairview Park; staff says feasibility and budget process next steps

Several residents urged the South Fayette Township Board of Commissioners to pursue adding two tennis courts at Fairview Park during the Oct. 8 public comment period, and staff explained the steps the township would need to take before construction.

"We have estimated that at least we need two additional courts in our township due to the increasing demand," resident Sar Shiniasan said, telling the board students and community members must now travel to neighboring townships for practice and competition. Shiniasan said the USDA could provide grants of up to $35,000 per court and asked what residents must provide to move a proposal forward.

Staff and commissioners responded with process guidance: parks and recreation must evaluate feasibility (site fit, parking, lighting and stormwater), engineering must prepare concepts and permitting (erosion and sediment controls, stormwater management) needs to be budgeted, and any construction would likely require at least a year from concept to completion. Paula and Paul (parks staff) advised the board that concept and planning dollars should be included in the 2026 budget if the township wishes to pursue it.

Staff also noted the school site plan approved at the meeting includes six tennis courts on the school property; those courts are expected to be completed in a multi‑year window and may not be available to the public immediately. The board said parks staff will examine Fairview Park feasibility and prepare budget numbers for further consideration.

No formal action was taken at the meeting; staff directed next steps would be feasibility work and budgeting as part of the parks and recreation planning process.