Pickleball Courts Planned For Park In Long Valley, Mayor Says

LONG VALLEY, NJ — Good news for pickleball lovers! Three new courts could soon be coming to the township, according to Mayor Matthew Murello.

Murello shared the news on social media Tuesday afternoon but did not provide further details, other than announcing that the township is working on installing new pickleball courts and is in the process of obtaining all necessary approvals.

The township plans to build the new courts adjacent to the current tennis courts at Rock Spring Park on East Springtown Road.

Last week at a Township Committee Work Session, members discussed and approved the addition of three new courts to the existing park and also determined the exact location for the project.

In case you've somehow missed the craze known as pickleball, it's a sport that uses paddles similar to those in ping-pong to hit a ball like a wiffleball over a net resembling a tennis net, all on a court similar to a badminton court. Pickleball is rapidly growing in popularity, especially in New Jersey.

The Washington Township Recreation Department notes that the game is both fast-paced and exciting, enjoying significant popularity among the township's adult residents.

Last fall, in response to the sport's rising popularity, Washington Township Recreation launched adult pickleball lessons. These classes cater to both beginners and advanced beginners looking to enhance their skills.

The program, led by TJD Sports Academy, is returning this fall and will run on Sept. 12, 19, 26, and Oct. 10, 17 (with a rain date of Oct. 24). Saturday sessions are scheduled for Sept. 14, 21, 28, and Oct. 5, 12 (with a rain date of Oct. 19).

The five-week sessions will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at the Rock Spring Park Tennis Courts.

For more information, contact the recreation office at (908) 876-5941.