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Residents, tournament organizers urge keeping petanque courts in Central Park
Summary
Multiple residents and club representatives urged the city to keep the petanque courts in Central Park, citing tournament tradition, estimated cost savings, shade and community access; several speakers said short notice limited attendance.
A dozen residents and representatives of the petanque club told staff at the town-hall that Central Park’s existing gravel courts should remain because the courts support year-round play, international tournaments and downtown economic activity.
Lisa Fingelstein, executive director of Main Street and chair of the CRA advisory board, warned that replacing the gravel surface would add costs (she cited an additional estimated cost of about $50,000) and remove a flexible public space used for vendor tents and event overflow: “Rather than replacing the current Potomac area with grass ... I would ask you to consider keeping the current gravel material in place.”
Club representatives said the open tournament requires roughly 16 regulation courts and that shaded courts are essential for summer play. John, speaking for the club, said the group has about 150 members and that shade under trees is critical: “We don't wanna tear up trees. We don't wanna do damage to trees.”
Several residents also said the meeting notice (about 36 hours) meant many young families and regular park users were not present; multiple speakers asked for clearer, easier-to-find agendas and bilingual outreach so impacted users can participate in future deliberations.
