AI-generated image of 4 pickleball courts

Pickleball Courts

Pickleball is a fast-growing, very popular activity on Vashon Island and across the country.  There are no dedicated, permanently-lined public courts on Vashon. Pickleball is currently a drop-in sport supported and hosted by Vashon Park District (VPD). These events are well attended and often over capacity. The temporary courts created for pickleball are available in limited time slots and access is often canceled to accommodate other activities that take priority. With the permanent infrastructure of a court complex, the opportunity for additional programming and community pickleball events would be substantially expanded to meet the growing enthusiasm and demand for play.

The vision is for a 4-court complex to accommodate the current and growing interest. Adding permanent courts will open this sport to more players searching for a place to be active. VPD is currently considering a two-phase project: the first phase is construction of two initial courts, andthe second phase would be for two additional courts with the potential for lights and a cover to increase their functionality and available play times. VPD plans to place the complex at the BARC on VPD property.

Pickleball courts vary in cost based on site location and design. While the total cost of the project is currently under evaluation, VPD has earmarked $25,000 for court construction in its current Capital Improvement Plan. The District is also investigating grant opportunities to fund construction. 

Community donations and grants will enable the VPD to create a high-quality pickleball court complex built to extend the opportunities for islanders to engage in this fun and welcoming sport. 

 FAQs

  • $75,000

  • Donations will go to all aspects of location preparation and construction of standard full-sized pickleball courts.

  • March 30, 2025

  • Two feasible sites have been identified - the Burton Adventure Recreational Center (BARC) and Paradise Ridge. The Vashon Park District and the pickleball community leaders are working together to determine the most appropriate site.

  • While the vision is to ultimately build 4 courts, initial construction will start with 2 courts.

  • Donors will be contacted and given the option to roll their donation to the general fund or another project, or to have their donation refunded (less processing fees).

  • Yes. The courts’ site will be a significant distance from neighboring homes to minimize noise impact and other nuisance issues. Parking will be available at the courts.

  • The Vashon Park District does have $25,000 set aside in its Capital Improvement Plan for pickleball courts.

  • It is unlikely that lights will be included in the first phase of construction.

  • No, these are designated courts designed only for pickleball.

  • Yes, The pickleball community plans to have beginner events with instruction available this summer 2024. Visit the Park District website for details (coming soon) or contact: Vashonpickleball@gmail.com to learn about current and future instruction and playing opportunities.