After requests from the community and an explosion in popularity of the sport, Baldwin County will soon welcome 20 brand-new pickleball courts.
The new courts will be open this spring at Walter B. Williams Park.
This project will nearly quadruple the number of public pickleball courts in Baldwin County, adding to the eight courts already located at the same park. This addition to the park will create 28 total pickleball courts, highlighting the sports rapid rise in popularity.
County Manager Carlos Tobar is excited for what this brings to the Milledgeville and Baldwin County community.
“Back in 2023, during the comprehensive planning phase, there was a survey of Baldwin County residents, and the number-one request was for more recreational opportunities,” Tobar said. “We are very excited to deliver these pickleball courts and other projects and opportunities to our residents.”
The total budget for the project is $1,805,191. After initially being rejected for an Economic Development Assistance (EDA) grant, new grants became available. The project is funded by three American Rescue Plan Act Park grants, which are aimed at helping disproportionately impacted communities. The site of the new courts qualified for the assistance.
The pickleball courts will be situated right next to Milledgeville’s upcoming water park, another important addition to the park. The new courts will also house their own pavilion, providing players with event space and seats for relaxation. According to Tobar, construction on the pickleball courts should be completed by late March or early April.
The new pickleball courts are one of eight recreational projects coming to Baldwin County and Milledgeville in 2025.
“It is not normal to try to deliver eight recreational projects at once. It is challenging, but they are all funded,” Tobar said.
“The stress comes from finding the money. Now that we have that, we can execute the plans. We are committed to making it happen. These projects will provide incredible opportunities for our residents.”
Adding more recreational opportunities shows Baldwin County’s dedication to bringing people together and fostering a happy, healthy community, Tobar emphasized.