We have so many options for recreation in Mt. Lebanon, but no opportunities to play one of the fastest growing sports in the U.S., pickleball. Free tennis courts, baseball and softball fields, basketball courts, soccer and lacrosse fields, bocce courts, and volleyball courts are all offered throughout the Mt. Lebanon community, but not a single pickleball court. Bethel Park, South Park, Upper Saint Clair, Peters, Collier, Scott, and Brookline all offer pickleball play. Mt. Lebanon players are forced to use our neighboring communities' courts, which have become very crowded.
We support, free, dedicated outdoor pickleball courts, just as there are free, dedicated tennis courts. We also support having lines drawn on existing tennis courts and basketball courts throughout the community. Meadowcroft Park is the best site for dedicated pickleball courts, and Williamsburg Park is the best site for drawing lines on the existing tennis courts. Basketball courts throughout the community should also have pickleball lines drawn.
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the U.S., while participation in tennis is declining among adults. Adding pickleball courts makes sense, as it offers our community the opportunity to play this fast growing sport. Leveraging existing tennis courts for dual play better utilizes a community asset and enhances the recreational opportunities available to all residents. I urge you to please join us in bringing attention to this issue by signing our petition.
