Fundraising Campaign Underway to Enhance Pickleball Courts at Peterson Park in Mattoon
The new pickleball courts at Peterson Park in Mattoon are getting a major upgrade thanks to a fundraising campaign initiated by the Mattoon Pickleball Group. The group, along with the city and the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce, announced plans to add outdoor lighting and other enhancements to the popular recreation facility.
City Council member Jim Closson highlighted the importance of this partnership between the city and pickleball players to further enhance the courts. The city also plans to seek grant funding for the project. In addition to installing lights for evening games, the city will be adding concrete seating areas for spectators and a fence around the facility to potentially host competitions and tournaments.
The fundraising campaign aims to support these capital improvements and establish a training program for players of all ages. The group has already reached out to potential sponsors in the business community and will be hosting a Pickleball Bash on November 16 at the Mattoon Eagles, featuring entertainment and a silent auction.
Pickleball enthusiasts, like Kim and Steve Janssen, are excited about the upgrades as they see the courts becoming a destination for players from neighboring towns. The courts have been heavily used since their opening in late May, with players from Effingham and other areas frequenting the facility.
The Mattoon Pickleball Group’s efforts to improve the courts and provide training opportunities for players demonstrate the growing popularity of the sport in the community. With the support of the city and local businesses, the future looks bright for pickleball in Mattoon.
