Williston Parks and Rec adding outdoor pickleball courts at Harmon Park

WILLISTON, N.D. (KUMV) - Unless they have the proper equipment, pickleball players in Williston are relegated to playing indoors at the Williston ARC. That is soon to change as Williston Parks and Recreation is building outdoor pickleball courts near Harmon Park.

Crews are setting up the site, which used to be for tennis and basketball but was seldom used by the community. Now it will feature multiple pickleball courts, which has become a popular activity within the state.

“We went from two tennis courts to eight pickleball courts. Now that area is going to be booming. We’re super excited for it,” said Joe Barsh, Williston Parks and Recreation executive director.

Reconfiguration of the courts was made possible through the department and a community grant from Williams County. Barsh said the hope is to have them open ahead of the July 4 weekend.

The site is on Main Street next to the former Eckert Youth Pool, which was demolished and filled last year. Barsh said Parks and Rec is still gathering input and researching possible features to add to the site, including more parking.

“We need parking. It’s not a pretty thing but it’s desperate in that area. Our job now is how can we think outside of the box where we can accomplish the goal of increased parking and serve another use in that park,” said Barsh.

Public suggestions can be made by visiting the Parks and Rec website.

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