Image of 2 pickleball paddles and 4 balls in front of a net

Pickleball Courts

Pickleball is a fast-growing, very popular activity on Vashon Island and across the country.  There are no dedicated, permanently-lined public courts on Vashon. Pickleball is currently a drop-in sport that is supported and hosted by Vashon Park District (VPD). These events are well attended and often over capacity. The temporary courts that are used for pickleball now are available in limited time slots and access is often canceled to accommodate other activities that take priority. 

Permanent courts on Vashon will open this sport to more players searching for a place to be active. New courts will offer an opportunity for more pickleball programming and community events, substantially expanding access to meet the growing enthusiasm and demand for play.  Community donations and grants will enable the VPD to create a high-quality pickleball court complex built to extend the opportunities for islanders to engage in this fun and welcoming sport. 

VPD has long-term plans to engage with community members and pickleball enthusiasts to support a design and construction for designated pickleball courts on District property. There are no current funds allocated in the present Capital Improvement Plan. However, it is noted in the plan as a grant and fundraising project. Moving forward with a design phase is anticipated in 2026. The Burton Adventure Recreation Center (BARC) remains under top consideration for locating pickleball courts. Detailed planning has been delayed due to required installation of permanent restrooms at the location, a necessity that impacts the design and construction of other uses. A fundraising target and grant resources are yet to be determined. Fundraising goals will be updated here as the project takes more defined shape.

Pickleball is fun, it’s exercise and it brings the community together in its cooperative culture. Please donate today to bring permanent courts to Vashon!

 FAQs

  • Donations will go to all aspects of location preparation and construction of standard full-sized pickleball courts.

  • Currently, the anticipated location is at the Burton Adventure Recreational Center (BARC).

  • While the vision is to ultimately build 4 courts, initial construction will start with 2 courts.

  • Yes. The courts’ site will be a significant distance from neighboring homes to minimize noise impact and other nuisance issues. Parking will be available at the courts.

  • The Vashon Park District does not currently have funds set aside in its Capital Improvement Plan for pickleball courts.

  • It is unlikely that lights will be included in the first phase of construction.

  • No, these are designated courts designed only for pickleball.

  • Yes, The pickleball community plans to have beginner events with instruction available this summer 2024. Visit the Park District website for details (coming soon) or contact: Vashonpickleball@gmail.com to learn about current and future instruction and playing opportunities.