Lack of Pickleball Courts in Pensacola

Purpose:

Petition to repurpose Hollis T Williams Park tennis courts to pickleball courts.  

This petition is intended to highlight the urgent need for additional Pickleball courts in Pensacola. At present, the community only has access to six public Pickleball courts: three at Armstrong Park and three offering restricted hours at Vickery Community Center. This limited availability does not meet the growing demand from the city’s increasing number of Pickleball enthusiasts.

Proposal:

We propose that the existing three, underutilized tennis courts at Hollis T. Williams Park, which are currently in disrepair, be repurposed to accommodate 12 new Pickleball courts as part of the park’s upcoming revitalization project. Due to the existing infrastructure, early estimates suggest this conversion could be completed at an affordable cost of $80,000. This budget would cover essential repairs such as resurfacing, re-striping with Pickleball court lines, installing new nets and posts, upgrading existing lighting, and adding wind screens.

Rationale:

Repurposing the tennis courts at Hollis T. Williams Park into Pickleball courts offers an affordable and efficient solution to the current shortage of facilities. This transformation would create a much-needed space for the growing Pickleball community, promoting recreational, social, and fitness activities. Additionally, it would revitalize an underused area of the park, benefiting the wider community by increasing access to sports and recreation.

We urge the City of Pensacola Parks and Recreation Department to include the conversion of these tennis courts into Pickleball courts in the Hollis T. Williams Park revitalization project. Your support by signing this petition will demonstrate the community’s need for more Pickleball courts and help ensure the continued growth and success of this popular sport in Pensacola.

NOTICE:  Of Meeting

A public meeting is to be held Tuesday, February 25th at 6:00pm regarding the rejuvenation project at Hollis T Williams Park.  The location will be at the Cobb Community Center, 601 E. Mallory.  This is our chance to show the city how important Pickleball is to the community. Bring your paddles and your enthusiasm!!