Geneva officials explore adding pickleball courts, playground upgrades

GENEVA — Pickleball could be coming to Geneva as town officials weigh options for new recreation amenities, including possible upgrades to aging playground equipment. No decisions or funding were approved, but the ideas drew extended discussion during the May 19 Redevelopment Commission meeting.

Commission members spent several minutes reviewing whether the old batting‑cage pad at the park could be repurposed into a pickleball court. The surface is in poor condition, and members agreed it would likely need a full repave rather than a seal coat. One member said a proper installation would require “two inches of asphalt” to ensure durability.

The board also discussed whether the outdoor basketball court at the school could be rebuilt to support multiple sports. A standard basketball court can fit up to four pickleball courts, and commissioners floated the idea of lining the surface for both basketball and pickleball. The court currently has cracks, dips and weed growth, and officials noted it has been heavily used in recent years.

Portable nets were mentioned as a possible option, though permanent posts would require additional work. Fencing already planned for the school site could make a dual‑use layout more practical, commissioners said.

While pickleball drew interest, the commission also talked about the condition of existing playground equipment. Several pieces near the ball diamonds are aging, rusted or sized only for younger children. Members discussed replacing the older metal equipment with a smaller, modern set designed for older kids or teens. The town plans to consult with Backyard Furniture, the same vendor that supplied previous park equipment, while also pricing new benches and picnic tables.

The conversation on both topics remained exploratory. The commission did not take action on pickleball, playground equipment or any related spending.

Town officials said they expect to revisit the ideas as broader park improvements move forward.