Charlotteville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – As pickleball continues its rapid rise in popularity, a debate is unfolding over whether the remaining tennis courts at Darden Towe Park should be converted into dedicated pickleball courts. The joint Albemarle County-Charlottesville committee overseeing the park will review public input on the matter during a meeting on Tuesday. “There are very enthusiastic organizations of people playing pickleball all over this country,” said Sean Tubbs of Info Cville. The discussion follows a public survey that has received 730 responses, reflecting strong community interest. 

This debate follows the earlier conversion of half the existing tennis courts into pickleball courts, and now the remaining two are under review. Tubbs noted that demand for recreational space is a common issue in the area. “There are limited places for people to play, and it’s one of the services that people want,” he said. Past controversies over field allocations have highlighted the ongoing challenge of balancing recreational needs. The upcoming committee meeting, which will not be televised, has left some residents wondering how the discussion will play out. 

Local officials have stressed the need for community involvement in these decisions and recognize the importance of open dialogue between residents and city leaders. Although the fate of the remaining courts is still uncertain, the strong response to the survey highlights the community’s deep interest in shaping the future of Charlottesville’s recreational spaces. 

Listen to the full conversation here: