Creating four outdoor pickleball courts in Sioux Center is on the docket for this summer. The City Council gave their support for the addition of two pickleball courts in Children’s Park and two in Open Space Park.
“We have heard our community ask for this, and we are looking forward to seeing people enjoy them this year,” Councilmember Randy Vreugdenhil said. “I especially like that we will have courts in two locations to increase access.”
Work on the courts is anticipated to begin in late June or July.
“Pickleball is a hot-ticket item. It’s a multi-generational sport that keeps people active,” said Sioux Center Parks Director Lee Van Meeteren. “It’s a great way for family and friends to connect and another great amenity Sioux Center can offer for quality of life.”
The two pickleball courts in Children’s Park will potentially be on the east side of the park, just west of the recreation trail. The new 60-foot by 60-foot court area could replace the older playground equipment on the east side of the park. The Parks Board will be meeting and discussing the location.
The two courts in Open Space Park are part of ongoing Joint Use planning with the City, Dordt University, and Sioux Center schools. They will be added south of the two new softball diamonds near the intersection of 7th St. NE and 13th Ave. NE. These two courts will be paid for by joint use members – the City, Dordt University and Sioux Center Community Schools – similar to other joint use facilities in Open Space Park.
“This project shows what strong partnerships and community support can achieve,” said Councilmember Jenn Vermeer. “It’s more than just pickleball courts—it reflects a shared vision to invest in quality-of-life amenities for all ages and build momentum for future enhancements that make our community an even better place to live, work, and play.”
The location of the Open Space Park courts will be determined as part of a long-term plan for that green space, where other amenities like tennis courts, mini-pitch soccer fields/basketball courts, and trails eventually may also be added. The new softball fields there are already slated to host more than 150 games this summer.
Van Meeteren said fundraising will be part of adding the four pickleball courts.
“There has been a lot of community interest in pickleball, and we are going to see what we can do to get some completed with the community’s help. They will be a great addition to the parks amenities that our community continues to offer.”
Parks Director Lee Van Meeteren will be our guest on the Daily Grind tomorrow (Friday, June 6th). Tune in to hear more about this exciting project!
