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Londonderry CIP committee singles out tennis-court repairs as top near-term priority
Summary
Committee members told the Recreation Department that restoring the Nelson Road tennis courts should be the CIP's immediate priority; Recreation Director Doug Cole estimated a $330,000 restoration and said drainage and ADA upgrades are required before expansion.
Committee members at the Londonderry Capital Improvement Program meeting on July 21 pressed for prompt repairs to the Nelson Road tennis courts, calling the worn courts a safety issue and a priority tied to school athletics.
"The Nelson Road Tennis Courts ... are probably 5, 10, maybe 15 years beyond their useful life," said Doug Cole, Recreation Director. Cole estimated a full restoration at about $330,000 and said the work must include resurfacing, fencing and drainage improvements to meet ADA requirements. He said because of prior use of LWCF funding on some courts, only two of the four courts would be eligible for that grant program and the town should pursue alternative grants, sponsorships or warrant-article funding for the rest.
Committee member (speaker 5) and others argued the town may ultimately need more courts than currently exist to serve residents and school teams. "To be honest, I don't even know if 4 tennis courts are adequate. I really think you need, like, 6," the member said, urging the committee to plan phased expansions and a clear overview of space, parking and program demand.
Town staff cautioned that drainage and underlying infrastructure must be addressed to ensure durable repairs. A staff member noted an underdrain issue that likely requires waiting until sufficient funds are available to do the job correctly. The committee agreed to keep the courts near the top of the list and to pursue grant and sponsorship options that would reduce reliance on one-time taxpayer funding.
Next steps: staff and the Recreation Department will refine cost estimates, check grant eligibility and report back with a site-feasibility assessment and a recommended phasing plan for council and budget committees.
