Save Our Huntington Woods Tennis Courts
The Issue
Please note a few edits have been made since the original petition was released Tuesday morning.
For my family and many others in Huntington Woods, MI, the local tennis courts at the recreation center are more than just a sports facility. These courts are a cherished area where generations intersect, from the young toddlers to teens and all the ages after that, sharing the joys of tennis and pickleball. The tennis court's central location by the library and recreation center adds to their convenience and significance in our daily lives.
Recently, it's come to our attention that the Parks and Recreation master plan, which is a requirement by the State to receive grant funding, and is spearheaded by the Parks and Recreation Department and the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board ( not the Planning Commission as previously stated in this petition ) is contemplating a suggestion given by Mayor Paul to replace these beloved courts with a public sitting area with picnic tables, an outdoor fire pit, and a pergola.
On the surface, this new plan might sound appealing, but it disregards the importance of maintaining active community spaces for all ages. To be very clear, this plan is said to “not necessarily reduce the number of tennis courts in the city but instead to relocate the tennis courts that are near the swimming pool to other areas of the city,” as told by City Commissioner Jessica Steinhart.
It's alarming that the decision is progressing based on a city-wide survey that only received a 2%- 3% response rate. Such a low participation level hardly reflects the voice of our community. We must- as residents of our city- use our voices to actively tell the Parks and Recreation department and advisory board that this is something we don’t want to see happen.
The potential removal of the courts doesn't just affect a few enthusiastic players. It risks dismantling a communal space that promotes health, wellbeing, and intergenerational connections, something we need more than ever in today's world.
Our goal is not to oppose new development blindly, but to voice that any changes should reflect the genuine needs and desires of the community. We propose a reevaluation of the survey results, ensuring that the majority of Huntington Woods residents are heard. Let's explore solutions that don't require sacrificing existing recreational facilities that are already serving an essential purpose.
Join us in advocating for the preservation of our tennis courts, a staple of sport and leisure that enriches community life. Preserve these spaces for my family and yours. Sign this petition to let the city know that these courts matter to us.
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The Issue
Please note a few edits have been made since the original petition was released Tuesday morning.
For my family and many others in Huntington Woods, MI, the local tennis courts at the recreation center are more than just a sports facility. These courts are a cherished area where generations intersect, from the young toddlers to teens and all the ages after that, sharing the joys of tennis and pickleball. The tennis court's central location by the library and recreation center adds to their convenience and significance in our daily lives.
Recently, it's come to our attention that the Parks and Recreation master plan, which is a requirement by the State to receive grant funding, and is spearheaded by the Parks and Recreation Department and the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board ( not the Planning Commission as previously stated in this petition ) is contemplating a suggestion given by Mayor Paul to replace these beloved courts with a public sitting area with picnic tables, an outdoor fire pit, and a pergola.
On the surface, this new plan might sound appealing, but it disregards the importance of maintaining active community spaces for all ages. To be very clear, this plan is said to “not necessarily reduce the number of tennis courts in the city but instead to relocate the tennis courts that are near the swimming pool to other areas of the city,” as told by City Commissioner Jessica Steinhart.
It's alarming that the decision is progressing based on a city-wide survey that only received a 2%- 3% response rate. Such a low participation level hardly reflects the voice of our community. We must- as residents of our city- use our voices to actively tell the Parks and Recreation department and advisory board that this is something we don’t want to see happen.
The potential removal of the courts doesn't just affect a few enthusiastic players. It risks dismantling a communal space that promotes health, wellbeing, and intergenerational connections, something we need more than ever in today's world.
Our goal is not to oppose new development blindly, but to voice that any changes should reflect the genuine needs and desires of the community. We propose a reevaluation of the survey results, ensuring that the majority of Huntington Woods residents are heard. Let's explore solutions that don't require sacrificing existing recreational facilities that are already serving an essential purpose.
Join us in advocating for the preservation of our tennis courts, a staple of sport and leisure that enriches community life. Preserve these spaces for my family and yours. Sign this petition to let the city know that these courts matter to us.
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Petition created on August 12, 2025