Two Wier Park courts lose pickleball lines after noise study

Pickleball play ceased on two western courts at Wier Park in West University Place on Oct. 23. The city issued a public notice confirming the change, which stems from a recent recommendation by the local Parks and Recreation Board.

The board acted after gathering resident feedback and reviewing a new acoustical study. City staff conducted the analysis to measure how noise from Wier and Judson Parks affects nearby homes. The data showed that pickleball sounds stand out more than those from tennis or basketball. Residents living near the parks described these noises as distinctive, particularly during repeated play sessions.

Current rules allow pickleball at both parks from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Players must use quieter equipment after 8 p.m. This schedule operates under a trial period for modified rules. The board voted to start this experimental phase in May, and it officially began on June 22.

Officials considered installing sound barriers around the courts to reduce noise levels. They rejected this option because the barriers would need to be too tall to work effectively. The cost to erect such structures also proved unfeasible for the city.

The board also evaluated requiring all players to use specialized quiet equipment. Staff reported that this gear does not offer the same performance as standard tools. This finding contributed to the decision to discontinue the activity on the two affected courts.

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