By Barb Pert Templeton
It’s a sport that’s been growing in popularity over the last few years and keeping that in mind prompted officials in Ira Township to approve new pickleball courts near the township hall.
A brief ribbon cutting ceremony held on Tuesday, Nov. 19 brought out a large crowd of officials and interested area residents who are eager to hit the courts.
“It was a wonderful, well attended ribbon cutting,” Ira Township Parks and Recreation Director Cindy Babisz said.
The new courts are located right next to the main township parking lot near the Ira Township offices and hall, the fire department and the water department.
“They are right in the middle of the compound,” Babisz said. “And these Pickleball courts are going to be a great addition to Ira Township.” Blue Water Healthy Living caught up with Babisz via email to pose a few questions about the new pickleball courts in the township.
A rendering of the new pickleball courts in Ira Township.
Blue Water Healthy Living: Are these new pickleball courts an addition or the only 2?
Ira Township Parks and Recreation Director Cindy Babisz: There are actually three courts included in the new amenity.
BWHL: What made the township decide to put in new courts?
Babisz: We have added new playscapes and features for the kids. Now it was time to add new options for the “Big Kids”.
BWHL: Where did the funds come from to make these new courts possible?
Babisz: Ira Township was able to use some of their ARPA Funds for the pickleball courts.
BWHL: Is pickleball a popular sport in the township? Do you host leagues or?
Babisz: Pickleball is popular all over the country. We hope to offer classes and leagues besides drop-in open play.
BWHL: When will the courts be ready for use?
Babisz: The courts are open now. Players have been seen playing with hats and gloves.
BWHL: How did the ribbon cutting ceremony go?
Babisz: The ribbon cutting was wonderful. Being part of the Anchor Bay Chamber of Commerce is a huge resource for the township. Many chamber members attended, our office staff and board members attended as well as Project Control Engineering and Pickleball Contractor Cortis Brother/CorCat.
BWHL: Did someone speak at the event?
Babisz: Our Ira Township Treasurer Tom Lauer was our speaker representative and cut the ribbon. Tom had suggested the pickleball courts.
A couple of players try out the new pickleball courts in Ira Township.
BWHL: Is pickleball something for all ages or just adults?
Babisz: I would say 10 and older. However, this sport is usually played by adults, especially retirees.
BWHL: Does the township provide the equipment to play or just the courts?
Babisz: We provide the courts. Players bring their own paddles and balls. We will add an equipment box in the spring. The owners of the new Pickleball 365 facility in Ira Township are donating pickleball racks to Ira next spring. The courts are open for drop-in play, no registration required. When we start league play there will be registration.
BWHL: What other amenities are offered to residents and visitors at the park?
Babisz: We have two playscapes; a large and small; a pavilion; basketball and volleyball courts; a gaga pit; a walking path, disc golf course; beautiful nature trails. Events include music in the park, bike safety day, an annual dog event and holiday events.
Ira Township Offices are located at 7085 Meldrum Road in Fair Haven.
