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Hermiston opens privately funded 10-court pickleball complex after two-year volunteer push
Summary
Hermiston residents opened a 10-court pickleball facility built with private donations and volunteer labor; the Greater Hermiston Community Foundation collected funds and leased city land for construction, and organizers say demand filled all courts during early use.
Hermiston, Oregon — Hermiston residents and volunteers celebrated the opening of a privately funded 10-court pickleball facility built on land leased from the city, organizers said.
Organizers credited a two-year, community-led effort that raised private donations through the Greater Hermiston Community Foundation, which "collected donations, essentially acting as the bank for the project," Presenter (Speaker 3) said. The committee chose private fundraising rather than relying on tax dollars and secured a lease from the city for the Theater Sports Complex site.
The project’s backers argued the facility responds to strong local demand. Presenter (Speaker 2) said pickleball has “spiked 35% in the past 3 years with more than 38,000 official courts” nationally and that the sport “continues to boom across the world with nearly 5,000,000 playing,” remarks organizers used to justify building 10 courts. Resident (Speaker 10) told the gathering the courts were already well used during late-evening play, saying he arrived late one night to find the parking lot and all 10 courts full.
Volunteers and local businesses provided labor, equipment and in-kind contributions, presenters said. "This place wasn't built by a corporation or a government mandate. It was built by people, by neighbors, volunteers, and donors who believed in something bigger than themselves," Presenter (Speaker 3) said, thanking foundations, businesses and players.
Speakers highlighted social and health benefits. Resident (Speaker 4) described improved mobility and social connection, saying playing helped after a long-term MS diagnosis. Organizers noted that the courts are intended as a lasting community amenity and that final finishing touches remain: Resident (Speaker 4) said, "Starting painting next week," referring to surface and striping work.
Attendance at the opening reflected community interest: presenters said more than 300 people attended the event, from young players to older residents. Organizers said they expect regular play and community use to continue as courts open for general play.
The dedication closed with a final invitation to join play. Presenter (Speaker 3) concluded, "Let's play pickleball."
