Lower Burrell unveils pickleball courts at Veterans Central Park

Lower Burrell has caught the pickleball bug.

Officials unveiled six new pickleball courts Wednesday at the old tennis courts of Veterans Central Park near City Hall.

“For all ages, this is great — even from kids 5 to 95,” said Councilman Mike Stanoski, who oversees the city’s parks department. “This is a long time needed in our community. Surrounding communities can use it and bring their families.”

Mayor Chris Fabry said residents Mike Bashour and Jim Hess were instrumental in bringing the courts to Lower Burrell. He also thanked the city’s parks and public works director, Michelle Hatbob, for her work coordinating the courts’ construction.

“For the city of Lower Burrell to step up and actually make it happen is wonderful,” Bashour said. “It’s going to get its use.”

Bashour isn’t wrong — numerous area municipalities have hopped on the pickleball blitz. Plum’s Renton Park installed pickleball courts in July. Oakmont officials announced plans for courts at Riverside Park earlier this spring. They also debuted in Freeport last fall.

Pickleball is America’s fastest-growing sport this year, according to pickleheads.com. More than 36.5 million Americans play pickleball.

“More than anything, it’s great for just being active,” Bashour said. “It’s a great way to meet people.”

Lower Burrell’s public works department installed the courts. It cost $63,000 and was budgeted for 2024, Manager Greg Primm said.