Property at the Plymouth Arts and Recreation Complex (PARC) would be used for four new courts if the crowdfunding platform Patronicity generates $50,000 by the Jan. 14 deadline. If the fundraising effort meets the goal, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) will award the project a matching $50,000 grant for the construction of the courts.
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong using a paddle and plastic ball with holes. Enthusiasts claim it is a game that is appropriate for players of all ages and skill levels. Rules are simple, making it a great introductory sport, according to a Pickleball website. Players use a perforated, plastic ball to send a ball over a tennis-type net on a badminton-sized court. It can be played in a singles or doubles format.
The PARC property will be donated for the construction of the courts at no cost, officials said.
There are currently no public pickleball courts in Plymouth. There are courts in Canton Township at Freedom Park and in the City of Westland.
"We are pleased to support and provide resources for this project, which offers accessible, low-cost space for public recreation through our Public Spaces Community Places Program, said MEDC Regional Prosperity Managing Director Paula Holtz.
Plymouth residents Pete Lamoureux and Mark Malcolm are leading the effort to bring four dedicated pickleball courts on the Theodore Street PARC property, next to the Miracle League field.
For more information or to donate access: patronicity.com/plymouthpickleball.
