West University Place ends pickleball trial on two Wier Park courts

Two western courts at Wier Park in West University Place no longer host pickleball matches as of Oct. 23. The city issued a notice confirming the end of play on those surfaces based on a recommendation from the local Parks and Recreation Board.

City staff conducted an acoustical study to measure how recreational sports affect homes near Wier and Judson Parks. The analysis determined that the sounds from pickleball stand out more to nearby residents than those from tennis or basketball. Officials noted that the noise becomes particularly noticeable during repeated play. The study found that pickleball sounds are distinctive enough to warrant a change in usage for the affected areas.

The city had launched a trial period for modified pickleball rules on June 22. Under this temporary framework, play was permitted from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Players were required to use quieter equipment after 8 p.m. The Parks and Recreation Board voted to enact this trial in May. The recent decision follows a short period of collecting resident feedback alongside the acoustic data.

Officials considered installing sound barriers around the courts to mitigate noise. A review of the option determined it was not feasible. The barriers would need to reach a specific height to work effectively, which would increase the cost of construction. Staff also evaluated enforcing the use of specialized quiet equipment during all hours. They found that these tools do not offer the same performance as standard gear for players.

The board will meet on Nov. 4 to discuss next steps for the courts at Wier and Judson Parks. The existing modified rules for pickleball play will remain in effect until that meeting. The Parks and Recreation Department plans to re-stripe the two discontinued courts for tennis only. The city will notify residents and users when the repainting work is scheduled to begin.

Pickleball remains allowed at both parks during the current trial period. The new restrictions apply specifically to the two western courts at Wier Park. Other recreational sports continue to follow their standard schedules. The city aims to balance access to recreation with the noise concerns raised by residents living near the park boundaries.