Okotoks has reduced hours of use at the Bob Anderson and Hughes Park Courts in what the Town says is an effort to strike a balance between recreation and neighbourhood enjoyment.
The Bob Anderson Courts at Wilson Park will now close at 5 p.m. on Friday and Sunday evenings instead of at 8 p.m., while the court at Hughes Park, on Woodgate Road, will close at 8 p.m. daily instead of at 10 p.m.
The Town said the changes are being made after the courts were subject to several noise complaints about pickleball and basketball play.
“I do feel that it is trying to find a balance between recreational use in Okotoks with pickleball, and being a good neighbour,” said Coun. Rachel Swendseid.
The changes are reflected in amendments to the Open Spaces and Recreation Facility Bylaw that were adopted by Okotoks council on Sept. 25.
In the case of the Bob Anderson Courts, the reduced hours were brought forward due to high usage by pickleball groups, the Town said.
The Town got two written submissions from residents about the changes, both regarding the Bob Anderson Courts. One was supportive of the reduced hours, and the other said it would reduce recreational opportunities for families at a time of day when league play is low.
Open spaces or parks in Okotoks are typically open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, with the exception of the skateboard park, Beatrice Wyndham Park, and the courts at Wilson and Hughes parks.
Year-round indoor pickleball will soon be available at the Foothills Centennial Centre, with more details about the rollout expected soon, said Christa Michailuck, Okotoks parks and recreation director.
Additonally, outdoor pickleball courts are available at École Beausoleil for drop-in use outside of school hours.
Michailuck said those courts have dedicated lines painted but do not have permanent nets.
“It does require bringing a portable net, because that is their main play area at the school, not dedicated courts,” she said.
The court at Hughes Park also has painted pickleball lines and is open until 8 p.m. on Friday and Sunday nights, but would also require a portable net.
