Since the pickleball courts at Peretz Park in the Town of East Lyme were installed in June of 2024, they have quickly become a beloved spot for residents. Every morning and afternoon, these courts echo with the sounds of paddles hitting balls and laughter from players of all ages. This sport has not only brought together family and friends but has also fostered a sense of community here in East Lyme.

However, as days grow shorter, many of us find our time enjoying this sport cut even shorter due to the lack of proper lighting. The lack of illumination means the courts become unusable as soon as dusk sets in, limiting playtime and discouraging evening games. For many who work during the day, evenings are often the only time to enjoy this pastime, emphasizing the need for lighting solutions.

We urge the Town of East Lyme to install permanent lighting at the Peretz Park pickleball courts. This addition would significantly enhance the usage of our facilities, allowing for extended hours of play and accommodating players who can only make time in the evenings. Additionally, having lights will increase safety for players by improving visibility.

The pickleball courts in the Town of Groton, the City of Groton, and at Camp Oakdale in Montville all have  similar lighting, which has highly boosted usage and increased local engagement in the sport. Enabling evening play is not just practical but essential in promoting an active lifestyle.

With the growing popularity of pickleball nationwide, it's evident that providing well-maintained and accessible facilities will enhance the community's quality of life and promote social interaction. Furthermore, with the development of high intensity LED lighting, the operating cost for these lights is now quite affordable.

We are appealing to the spirit of community improvement and recreational development that East Lyme embodies. By installing lights, we not only extend the hours of physical activity but also promote healthy community relationships and a vibrant park atmosphere.