Council approves temporary signage at Rainier Trails Park amid pickleball/tennis dispute

Enumclaw — The City Council voted on May 26 to place a temporary sign at Rainier Trails Park asking users to limit the court to tennis and directing pickleball players to newly resurfaced courts at Dwight Garrett Park.

The motion grew out of a Community Services Committee discussion about complaints the council received citing noise, parking congestion and public urination near Rainier Trails. Councilmember (motion sponsor) described the sign as an "honor system" measure rather than a codified restriction.

"You can do it at any park," the presiding official said, noting the sign would not be enforceable without codified policy changes. Committee members and councilors debated whether the sign should be restrictive language ("tennis only") or invitational language that encourages users to go to the alternative courts. Concerns included potential escalation between neighbors and players and whether a sign that cannot be enforced would create disputes.

Staff advised a temporary sign could be used while monitoring whether the newly resurfaced courts at Dwight Garrett relieve pressure on Rainier Trails. Councilmember discussion also covered options to reimburse parties that incurred costs removing old stripes if the city later codifies restrictions.

After discussion and proposed verbiage to include directions to alternate courts and contact information, the council voted in favor of placing a temporary sign. Council did not adopt any codified park rule changes at the meeting; enforcement by police or code enforcement was not authorized as part of the motion.

The temporary sign is intended as a short-term, low-cost step while staff monitor usage and complaints and while council considers whether further policy changes are needed.