As of Oct. 23, pickleball play has been discontinued on two of Wier Park’s western courts based on a recommendation from West University Place’s Parks and Recreation Board, according to a citywide announcement.
How it happened
This decision comes after a brief collection of resident feedback, as well as the results of a recent acoustical study conducted by city staff to better understand how pickleball activity at Wier and Judson Parks affects nearby homes.
The study found that pickleball’s impact sounds “stand out more” than other recreational sports, such as tennis or basketball. These noises are much more noticeable and distinctive to residents who live in proximity to the parks where pickleball is hosted, especially during repeated play, per the announcement.
Currently, pickleball at both parks is allowed from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. with the caveat that quieter equipment must be used after 8 p.m. as part of the city’s existing trial period for pending rule modifications.
What are the options?
West U’s Parks and Recreation Board voted to enact the trial period for the modified rules back in May. This experimental period officially began June 22, according to prior city announcements.
With regard to the acoustical study, officials said they explored potentially implementing sound barriers around the parks’ courts. However, further examination determined this solution to be unfeasible due to the height needed to mitigate sound and the associated costs of erecting them.
Implementing stricter usage of specialized “quiet” equipment was also considered, though findings indicated that these tools do not offer players the same performance as standard equipment does, officials said.
What residents should know
The board is slated to discuss the next steps, if any, and the current conditions surrounding Wier and Judson Parks’ courts at its Nov. 4 meeting. Until then, the existing modified rules for pickleball play will remain in effect.
Officials from the Parks and Recreation Department intend to re-stripe the now-discontinued pickleball courts for tennis play only. Users and residents will be notified when this work is scheduled to occur, per the announcement.
