8 New Pickleball Courts Unveiled At Western Regional Park Becoming Largest Set In HoCo

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Eight new pickleball courts at Western Regional Park have been unveiled. They are the largest set of pickleball courts in the county.

The new outdoor pickleball courts are adjacent to the tennis courts. Both the existing tennis and new pickleball courts have new lights, benches and shade structures to allow the courts to be available more hours each day. The completed construction project also includes a new pathway between the tennis and pickleball courts to welcome both spectators and players.

“At Recreation and Parks, we research national, state and local trends to ensure that Howard County residents may participate in the recreation and leisure activities of their choice,” Howard County Parks Director Nick Mooneyhan said. “My department is offering 16 pickleball programs with multiple dates and time options this fall alone.”

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball said officials are aware of how popular pickleball has become.

“Our residents, especially those who are part of our active-aging community, enjoy the exercise, competition and camaraderie that this sport provides.” Ball said. “Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the country and we know that it’s important that our residents have access to the best facilities right in their neighborhoods.”

The courts are for casual play on a first-come, first-served basis when not being used for Howard County Recreation and Parks programs. The county plans to post lesson hours and how many courts will be needed to help make the public aware of their availability.

“We now have over 1,000 members in our association, and continue to add new members every day,” said Howard County Pickleball Association President Andy Dalal. “Between the eight new dedicated courts and the blended lines on the tennis courts, which provide for another eight pickleball courts, our club is excited to start planning tournaments and organize open play sessions for our members and the public.”

The county anticipates construction to start on six additional pickleball courts and other amenities at Blandair Park in 2024.