Woolwich committee weighs tighter rules for pickleball courts, approves bidding for dugouts at Locke Avenue Park

The Woolwich Township Committee on May 18 discussed recurring misuse of the township pickleball courts and directed staff to pursue options to protect park facilities while approving the solicitation of bids for dugouts at Locke Avenue Park.

Committeeman Frederick, who oversees special projects and municipal services, reported that teenagers have been misusing the pickleball courts—causing damage and bringing food and drinks—and that posted signs and police patrols have not fully resolved the problem. He said the committee is considering locking courts with access codes if misuse continues and expects cameras to be installed soon to monitor activity. Frederick also proposed adding a volleyball net and posts in a mowed field near the courts at an estimated cost of $1,000 or less; Solicitor Alice recommended checking for hazards to minimize liability.

Committeewoman Williams, who oversees Parks and Recreation, reported on Family Fun Day (May 16), saying the event generated $15,640 in revenue and $16,901 in expenses for a net loss of $1,261 and that sponsorship revenue reached a record level at about $3,200. Williams said parks programming will slow for the summer and resume in the fall, and asked that future beginner clinics be advertised earlier to improve enrollment.

Separately, Mayor Matthias authorized Administrator Watson to solicit bids for dugout construction at Locke Avenue Park after those items were removed from Wyndham Construction’s contract; the township will receive a credit because concrete pads are already installed. The dugouts are planned to match existing design (cinder block construction, exterior doors, 15-foot metal benches) and construction is expected to begin after the township takes ownership, with a target of completion for fall sports. The proposal may be completed by volunteers or an Eagle Scout project if appropriate.