Bauler Playground (Play Lot), was created 50 years ago specifically as a safe and open space for kids to play in Lincoln Park.

Generations of Lincoln Park kids have spent meaningful parts of their youth at Bauler Park playing, learning to ride bikes, making new friends, and in general being able to explore their surroundings in a safe and fenced in space. The unique wide-open blacktop area is the only dedicated and protected expansive play area where children can freely move in all of Lincoln Park. Bauler is a vital community gathering place and the heart and soul of life for many Lincoln Park children and families; a haven they have peacefully enjoyed for many years. Until now.

With little community input, the Bauler PAC (Park Advisory Committee) quietly convinced the Chicago Park District to install three pickleball courts that now dominate the open play space. Even with allotted times for pickleball play, the rules are ambiguous and young children are bullied off the space, leading to conflict. Several children and their parents have been verbally assaulted when advocating for their right to play. And while the Park District has acknowledged kids have first priority for use of the space, that guidance is frequently disregarded. Additionally, while the Park District updated the times of play on their website, the signage in the park doesn’t reflect the most up-to-date information, leading to confusion and conflict. As a result, the children have been squeezed out, intimidated and many have stopped going altogether to avoid conflict with adults.

After over a year of trying different solutions, it has become clear that Pickleball courts cannot coexist in a widely used children’s community playground. Pickleball, like tennis, requires large, designated courts to protect players and non-players.  It is dangerous and unfair to the children to let this sudden land grab happen at their expense. This is especially true when the neighborhood has plenty of alternative space that could be used for pickleball, such as Oz Park. While we agree that pickle ball is a healthy and fun pastime for many in the community, Bauler Park has proven to be an unfit space for this sport. 

Please sign the petition to have Chicago Park District abide by their primary Core Value of putting children first and immediately end all pickleball at Bauler Park. This will return the playground to its intended use - a playground for children..