the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, the Ridgewood blog has chronicled Ridgewood’s War on Pickleball which seems to have cooled somewhat . Municipalities nationwide are grappling with the seemingly limitless demand for pickleball courts — and blowback from neighbors who complain the constant smack-smack-smack is VERY LOUD.
Why it matters: Pickleball is America’s fastest growing sport, but adherents are clashing with sleep-loving neighbors — and tennis players and schoolchildren who say their courts and playgrounds are being usurped.
Pickleball, has indeed generated a mixed response in various cities, resulting in a love-hate relationship. While some cities have embraced pickleball and experienced its positive aspects, others have faced challenges or concerns that have led to a more conflicted perspective. Let’s explore both sides of this love-hate relationship:
Love for Pickleball in Cities:
- Community Engagement: Pickleball has garnered a significant following and provides an opportunity for people of different ages and skill levels to come together and enjoy a fun and inclusive sport. Many cities appreciate the community-building aspect of pickleball.
- Health and Recreation: The sport promotes physical activity and exercise, contributing to the overall well-being of residents. Cities value the health benefits that pickleball brings, especially as a low-impact activity suitable for all ages.
- Facility Utilization: Pickleball courts can be created by converting existing tennis or basketball courts, making efficient use of space and resources. This versatility allows cities to maximize the utility of their recreational facilities.
- Tourism and Revenue: Cities that successfully market themselves as pickleball destinations attract enthusiasts from other areas, resulting in increased tourism and associated economic benefits, such as hotel bookings, dining, and local businesses.
Hate or Concerns about Pickleball in Cities:
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- Noise and Disturbance: Some residents near pickleball courts complain about the noise generated during gameplay, especially if the courts are located close to residential areas. The sound of balls hitting paddles and occasional cheering can be disruptive for those seeking peace and quiet.
- Allocation of Resources: The popularity of pickleball can lead to a demand for dedicated courts or additional facilities. This can strain city budgets and resources, as the construction and maintenance of pickleball courts require funding and space that could be utilized for other recreational activities.
- Limited Availability of Courts: In cities where pickleball has gained immense popularity, the demand for court time can exceed the available resources. This can lead to long waiting lists or difficulty finding court availability, frustrating both casual players and enthusiasts.
- Conflict with Other Sports: Converting existing facilities for pickleball may create tension with other sports enthusiasts who relied on those resources. This can result in conflicts and debates about the allocation of space and the impact on other sports.
To mitigate these challenges and strike a balance, cities often engage in public consultations, explore alternative locations for courts, establish noise regulations, and consider the needs of diverse recreational groups when making decisions regarding pickleball infrastructure and resources.
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Part of the problem is that the very concept of respecting others’ desire for peace and quiet has just about disappeared. Sports above all.
People complain about sports and landscapers. How about residents who install outdoor music systems that project from the house towards the neighbors. Allowing teens to crank it up and run it for hours.
This is a daily problem. Parents push the teens to the backyard and do not supervise. Pass an ordinance on outdoor music systems.
Hey you kids. Get off my lawn!!!!
The noise around pickleball at Glen has subsided because it is clear that the current Mayor and Council , as well as the Director of Parks and Recreation (who has been seen playing pickleball at Glen) , care only about getting votes and/or pleasing their pickleball playing friends. Town laws about notification of neighbors were not followed and promises to monitor courts for residency, use of muted balls,etc. were soon terminated due to budget issues. Instead of decreasing pickleball play, the Parks and Rec dept has sponsored lessons and tournaments at the Glen courts. In addition, a “ sound study” was waved around to indicate that there was really no audible sounds coming from the courts to neighbors homes, despite testimony by multiple neighbors for multiple years.
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U CAN’T FIGHT CITY HALL! RE: PICKLEBALL!
Hello theridgewoodblog.net owner, Your posts are always well-supported by facts and figures.