Academy Field Pickleball Courts and Basketball Court
In the fall of 2021, we had the opportunity to apply for two Outdoor Recreation Development Grants through the State of Rhode Island. We were successful in our submissions, being awarded 2 grants that will have a positive impact on the way our residents utilize these parks for the next generation. One of our grant submissions was for the development of 2 stand alone pickleball courts to be located at Academy Field. Academy Field is nestled inside the historic Hill & Harbor District of East Greenwich, sitting on a parcel of land that formerly was the site of the East Greenwich Academy. The Swift Community Center (formerly Swift Gym) operates as the Town’s Senior Center as well as serving as the hub for many programmatic offerings through our Recreation Division. Currently Academy Field offers a youth baseball field, mutli-purpose playfield, a playground, and two basketball courts. This plan will add two (2) pickleball courts with a small shade shelter with seating. Also, an ADA pathway will be installed to the adjacent parking lot which will see the addition of one handicap parking space.
Pickleball has become a very popular activity, especially with those 50 years and older. The courts will provide members of our Senior Center a place to congregate and play pickleball through program offerings as well as the ability to use the courts on their own time on a first come first served basis. Additionally, pickleball has been a popular program offered through our Recreation Division. The Recreation Division routinely offers instructional programs for all ages, as well as evening leagues indoor through the winter. With the growing popularity of the sport both locally and nationally, we have seen an increased demand for courts in town, putting pressure on our tennis courts and limiting play for tennis players as our existing courts are the only space that those seeking to play pickleball can easily visit the park and play currently.
The Town of East Greeniwch is pleased to announce that plans are underway to build new pickleball courts at Academy Field. The courts will provide a safe and convenient space for the community to enjoy this popular sport.
The Town of East Greenwich is dedicated to improving the quality of life for its residents, and this project is part of that effort. We look forward to seeing our community come together on the courts soon!
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Academy Field Pickleball Court Project
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports and healthy activities in the United States, and the Town of East Greenwich is committed to providing more recreational opportunities for our residents. The new courts will give local players a place to come together and play pickleball, while also providing a fun and healthy activity for all ages. Located adjacent to the Swift Community Center, the courts will provide an excellent location for our senior population to play while visiting our Senior Center. The Town is also pursuing the use and balancing of interests of existing court surfaces while also planning for additional new courts in the future to address the growing demand in all age categories for this activity locally.
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