Petition to the Orangevale Recreation & Park District to create additional pickleball courts at Shady Oaks Park and Pecan Park in Orangevale, CA.

1. Pickleball exploded during the pandemic and has become America’s fastest-growing sport. According to USA Pickleball, there were 8.9 million players in the United States in 2023. Pickleball is fun, social, and friendly. The rules are simple and the game is easy for beginners to learn, but it can develop into a fast-paced, competitive game.

2. In addition to being a fun recreational activity, according to experts, the game improves balance and coordination; promotes social activity; provides a mood boost; exercises cognitive thinking and improves physical fitness. Pickleball is beneficial to every age group—including seniors.

3. Unfortunately, with the popularity of Pickleball, both Shady Oaks Park (7208 Hazel Avenue, Orangevale, CA) and Pecan Park (5945 Pecan Avenue, Orangevale, CA 95662) are now overcrowded with players. There are only 2 Pickleball courts and 1 tennis court at each park. Most often the tennis courts are unused except for Pickleball players warming up to play on the Pickleball courts. Shady Oaks also has the only Pickleball courts in Orangevale with lights. On most nights it is not unusual for 20 to 25 players to jockey for playing time at both parks.

4. In order to alleviate the overcrowded Pickleball courts, we believe that both Shady Oaks Park and Pecan Park should have the tennis courts removed and 3 additional Pickleball Courts (possibly 4) added. This can be done with minimal construction costs on the existing concrete pads. Additionally, Pecan Park should also have lights added to allow for play in the evenings. Adding Pickleball courts to Shady Oaks and Pecan Park is more economical and cost-effective compared to constructing brand new courts.

The following Petitioners respectfully request that the Orangevale Recreation & Park District add the additional Pickleball courts as described in this Petition.

Respectfully Submitted,