The Georgetown Township, a charter township of Ottawa County in Michigan, could soon be the proud recipient of a dozen brand-spanking new pickleball courts.
Accessible Facilities
Township officials are considering the development of 12 pickleball courts at a local park, aiming to meet residents’ demand for accessible facilities.
8th Avenue Park, located in Georgetown Township south of Chicago Drive, is favored by consultants for the proposed courts, though the final location remains undecided. Supervisor Jim Wierenga indicated that a decision by the township board is expected in the next two months.
The idea of introducing pickleball courts in Georgetown Township has been an ongoing discussion, given the sport’s rising popularity among the community.
The Most Suitable Spot
Wierenga told MLive/The Grand Rapids Press: “This is a fast-growing sport, and we really have a constituency that I think would enjoy it, residents that would enjoy it.”
Around five months ago, the township board initiated the process by hiring consultant Jeff Howlett. Howlett evaluated local parks to identify the most suitable spot for the potential pickleball courts, and at the July 10 township board meeting, Howlett presented his analysis, singling out 8th Avenue Park.
He explained how various factors like amenities, proximity to housing, and potential noise impact were assessed for each possible venue.
8th Avenue Park emerged as a recommendation due to its central position, separation from residential areas, easy access, and solid foundation. The location also offers amenities such as a basketball court, pavilion, restrooms, a modern playground, and ample parking.
Minimizing Noise Disturbance
Wierenga emphasized that the 8th Avenue location is strategically chosen to minimize noise disturbance to nearby neighborhoods. He noted, “There’s no perfect setting, I suppose you can say, but for noise, it’s probably the best potential setting as it relates to that.”
Beyond catering to residents’ physical activity, Wierenga envisions the pickleball courts at 8th Avenue Park driving business to local establishments. He highlighted that visitors could participate in nearby activities and use retail outlets, thereby benefiting the neighboring businesses.
Qualified Vendors
According to Howlett’s estimation, the estimated cost of the entire project is approximately $850,000, with each court projected to cost around $70,000. During the July 10 meeting, the Georgetown Township Board voted 5-2 to enlist Howlett as a project manager, allocating $2,600 for this role.
Howlett is tasked with soliciting bids from qualified vendors for the pickleball court development. If the board approves, the project will likely be completed next year.
Georgetown Township
Georgetown Township is 10 miles southwest of Grand Rapids and 150 miles west of Detroit. It has a population of nearly 47,000.
Click here to see more of our articles about pickleball in Michigan, and here for more stories about new pickleball developments around the nation.
