BRENHAM PARKS & REC BOARD TO DISCUSS POSSIBLE EXPANSION OF PICKLEBALL AT JACKSON STREET PARK

  

Jackson Street Park in Brenham could potentially be converted into a pickleball complex.

On Wednesday, the Brenham Parks and Recreation Advisory Board will discuss expanding pickleball facilities at the park.  The board will review a preliminary vision plan that includes the repurposing of the park’s basketball courts and addition of new pickleball courts.

In a memo to the board from Public Works Director Dane Rau, he said the local pickleball league has increased from 20 members to over 200 through the past four years, and the sport has surged in popularity both locally and nationally.  He said the city has been approached by pickleball advocates with a vision plan consisting of up to four phases of improvements, as well as the possibility of private funds assisting with the expansion of additional courts and amenities. 

The six current pickleball courts were repurposed in 2019.  The vision plan, which Rau called a “very rough draft,” would increase that number to 22 courts, two of them offering grand stand seating.  The complex would be capable of hosting regional and national events capable of drawing participation for tournaments, clinic workshops/camps and community-affiliated activities.

The city is currently working with Burditt Consultants about a phase I improvement project at Jackson Street Park to address aging infrastructure and upgrade elements such as ADA compliance, restrooms, electrical, and newer play areas.  The improvements were included in the Brenham Community Development Corporation’s 2023-24 budget at $715,000.  

Rau said this agenda item is to get the board’s feedback on expanding pickleball at Jackson Street Park compared to another park, so that if the board chooses to pursue these improvements, they can be included in the city’s agreement with Burditt Consultants to determine a site plan and projected costs. 

In other business, the board will act on 2024 rates for parks and recreation facilities and programs.  The recommended changes are meant to address rising expenses for maintenance and upkeep, help the city stay competitive with part-time pay, and contribute to the conversion of four softball diamonds at Hohlt Park to turf.

The changes include a resident/non-resident fee schedule for the Blue Bell Aquatic Center, adjusting the carousel fee from $1 per rider per day to $1 per rider each time, and an increase in field and facility rentals.  The city is also seeking board feedback regarding rental fees for private usage of pickleball courts and disc golf, as tournament directors have approached the city about hosting tournaments there.

If adopted, the new rates are projected to increase revenue by $35,000 for parks and $85,000 for aquatics.   

Following that, board members will go through staff updates.

The board will meet Wednesday at noon in the second-floor conference room at Brenham City Hall.

Click here to view the agenda packet for Wednesday's meeting.