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Council scales back pickleball at Samanski Park after neighborhood outcry
Summary
After hours of testimony from nearby residents and players, South Burlington City Council voted unanimously to remove two permanent pickleball nets at Samanski Park, require portable nets for city-run leagues, post parking guidance, and ask the Rec & Parks Committee for a study on long-term siting and mitigation.
South Burlington City Council voted unanimously May 4 to reduce the number of permanent pickleball courts at Samanski Park as an immediate step to ease noise, traffic and safety concerns raised by neighbors.
The council approved a motion to remove two of four permanently installed nets, allow the recreation department to run leagues using portable nets instead, and direct signage and outreach to alternative parking areas. Council also tasked the Recreation & Parks Committee with producing a recommendation and analysis for a longer-term solution for pickleball siting and disturbance mitigation.
Residents who live near the park described frequent weekend congestion, unsafe driving behavior and an intrusive, repetitive noise. Tim Warren, a nearby resident, told the council: "But those pickleball courts have changed the, the environment significantly." Several neighbors urged relocation, sound mitigation or limits on hours and the number of active courts.
Players and other park users urged the council to preserve public access while addressing neighborhood impacts. Recreation director Adam Math said the city’s current leagues rely on four courts and noted the department runs organized programs Monday and Tuesday evenings that use the full set. "We have the teams for it," he said, explaining the logistics of league play.
Council members framed the action as short-term relief and a step toward a durable policy. Councilor Laurie (liaison to Rec & Parks) will lead the committee review. Chair (role) said the measure is intended to "downscale the amount of pickleball that fits into that neighborhood" and asked staff and Rec & Parks to return with a timeline and recommendations.
Next steps: the Rec & Parks Committee will report back with siting options, potential mitigation measures (including sound barriers and revised hours), and an implementation timetable that the council can act on later this year.
