Like pickleball? If you’re in Falls Township, there will soon be new courts to play it.
Advertisements
On Monday evening, the Falls Township Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the installation of four new courts at Quaker Penn Park.
Parks and Recreation Director Brian Andrews said that the $294,407.02 project was initially earmarked in the township’s 2023 budget. There is potential for a portion of the cost to be paid through a state grant.
The court are expected to be completed this summer.
Advertisements
The decision was made in response to increasing demands from local residents, officials said.
The planned courts will be located near the batting cage at Quaker Penn Park, which sits along the Delaware River by Pennsbury Manor.
Advertisements
Officials said they are open to expanding the number of courts in the future and potentially utilizing some field space if necessary.
Quaker Penn Park has had a number of recent improvements, including new restrooms and a playground. The park already featured a boat ramp and docks.
Andrews said the addition of the courts will make the park “more of an attraction.”
Advertisements
To start, the pickleball courts will operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, there are plans to introduce reservation systems and potentially organize programs and leagues.
Supervisors Chairperson Jeff Dence noted the sport’s soaring popularity.
Advertisements
“It’s been booming everywhere,” Andrews said.
Middletown Township opened a pickleball court last year.
Advertisements
The 2022 State of Pickleball: Participation & Infrastructure Report highlighted an 85 percent increase in players, totaling 8.9 million and establishing pickleball as America’s fastest-growing sport.
The surge in interest has led to an increased number of pickleball facilities by local governments and businesses across the country.
Advertisements
However, the sport’s rapid growth has not been without challenges. CNN reported issues such as injuries, noise concerns from residents, and competition for court time have arisen across the country.
Report a correction via email | Editorial standards and policies
