News Summary
Beaufort’s Southside Park is set to open new pickleball courts in December 2024, expanding its facilities to six courts. The $635,000 project highlights Beaufort County’s commitment to recreational growth in response to the sport’s rising popularity. Additionally, the area is seeing other developments including a dedicated indoor pickleball facility and community events promoting the sport.
Beaufort – The new pickleball courts at Southside Park in Beaufort are set to officially open in early December 2024. This development underscores Beaufort County’s commitment to expanding recreational facilities amid the growing popularity of the sport.
The project, which costs approximately $635,000, is part of the county’s broader budget of $154.2 million for the fiscal year 2025. Alongside the four new pickleball courts, improvements to Southside Park also include the addition of a full-length basketball court. The new installations at the park will complement the existing two pickleball courts, which opened in September 2021.
With the completion of the new courts, Southside Park will feature a total of six pickleball courts, making it the second-largest complex north of the Broad River. The larger complex is located at the Burton Wells Recreation Center, which boasts eight courts. Beaufort County has prioritized the construction of public pickleball facilities, financing the establishment of 18 public courts since 2021, of which 16 are located in Beaufort and Port Royal, and two are situated in Bluffton.
The rise in local pickleball facilities coincides with a national boom in the sport, which currently has around 13.6 million players across the United States, as reported by USA Pickleball. The sport’s growing popularity is attributed to its accessibility, simplicity, and social aspects, drawing new players to courts throughout the country.
Further Developments in the Area
Other nearby communities are also enhancing their pickleball offerings. Notably, Hilton Head Island is planning to develop a dedicated 24-court complex and is converting existing tennis courts into dedicated pickleball facilities. An additional local highlight includes the upcoming Dill Dinkers indoor pickleball facility, expected to open in late November. This facility, located in a former Sam’s Club on Hilton Head Island, will feature eight courts, event space, a pro shop, and will offer clinics and private lessons. It will be operated by a local pickleball professional.
Community Engagement
The demand for pickleball courts is further evidenced by active community involvement in organizing events. For example, the local pickleball community is preparing for the 2nd Annual GNMC Pickleball Classic, scheduled for April 29-30, 2023. This event aims to raise funds for healthcare services in the Beaufort area, illustrating the sport’s impact beyond recreational play.
The original two courts at Southside Park were converted from an existing tennis court, demonstrating a practical approach to meet the rising demand for pickleball facilities. The increasing number of players and the establishment of multiple courts highlight the escalating interest in the sport, a trend seen not only locally but nationwide.
As Beaufort County prepares for the opening of the new pickleball courts, officials and residents alike acknowledge the role that recreational and community facilities play in enhancing quality of life for residents, making areas like Southside Park a valuable asset to the community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beaufort County Prepares for a Vibrant May 2025 with Events
Additional Resources
- Your Island News: New Pickleball Courts
- Wikipedia: Pickleball
- Island Packet: Beaufort News
- Google Search: pickleball news
- Explore Beaufort SC: Annual Pickleball Tournament
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pickleball
- Post and Courier: Dill Dinkers
- Google News: pickleball facilities development
