COURTENAY, B.C. – The sport of pickleball continues to grow in popularity, and the City of Courtenay is taking that seriously.
At its regular meeting tonight, council will discuss the possibility for a dedicated facility for pickleball in Courtenay, which includes the option of installing courts at Lewis Park, replacing the existing horseshoe facility.
However, council’s agenda indicates that there is an ongoing hazard of fly balls from the nearby baseball diamonds.
There has also not been an assessment of outdoor field and court space available from a regional perspective. Staff suggests that an evaluation is important before moving forward with any plans to construct pickleball courts in Courtenay.
The agenda states that the Comox Valley Pickleball Association supports the idea of conducting an assessment and can contribute funds to build a new facility, but have raised concerns that further study could cause unnecessary delays.
Courtenay staff is proposing that council allocate $100,000 in 2019 toward a $250,000 six-court capital project.
A working group would secure the remaining funds from the Comox Valley Regional District, Pickleball Association, and other outlets.
If the group does not succeed in finding a secure location, or funds for the courts, staff will report back to council with new options.
Courtenay council will hold its meeting at city hall at 4:00 p.m.
