ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Citing enormous public enthusiasm for the sport, city officials have announced two potential sites for an eight to 10-court pickleball complex: Aston Park in downtown Asheville and Roger Farmer Park off of Patton Avenue.
April is National Pickleball Month, bringing the park project announcement at an opportune time. According to a city press release, the project team seeks feedback from the community, “picklers” and non-players alike.
Holding court about the pickleball courts
There will be three drop-in sessions for the community to share their design feedback and speak to project leaders. Free ART bus transit vouchers are available for community members who wish to attend the meetings. Email parks@ashevillenc.gov or dial (828) 259-5800 to request one.
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4:30-6:30 p.m., Monday, April 27, Roger Farmer Park, 71 Deaverview Road
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11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 28, Aston Park, 300 Hilliard Ave.
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4:30-7 p.m., Tuesday, April 28, Asheville Sports Club, 137 Coxe Ave., also featuring open play pickleball
Community members are also encouraged to fill out a short survey about the project between April 27 and May 11. The survey includes questions about site preference, travel and features like shade and landscaping. Find the survey here.
The pickleball courts will be funded by the 2024 general obligation bonds as part of the 10 year Recreate Asheville parks and recreation plan.
Selecting the site
The city of Asheville partnered with Surface 678 landscape architects to determine the two finalists for the pickleball complex.
“While each park offers unique advantages and challenges, both sites are easily accessible and have underutilized areas with enough space to accommodate courts and support features such as parking and restrooms,” the city wrote in the release. “Additionally, both parks are located in high investment zones recognized in the Recreate Asheville plan.”
The two parks each offer different perks suitable for a pickleball complex.
Aston Park is located in downtown Asheville, making it easily accessible for city residents, and already sports an active tennis court. Potential pickleball courts would join a playground, paved paths, a gazebo and other recreational amenities. Learn more about the park here.
Roger Farmer Park is located off of Patton Avenue in West Asheville and has a “neighborhood-centric feel,” the city wrote. The park is home to two baseball diamonds, a picnic shelter, a multi-use court and a large grass field. Learn more about the park here.
According to the city, the final home of the pickleball project will be selected by the end of the summer.