The new Rochester Sports and Recreation Complex, recently approved by the City Council, aims to serve a broad range of users, including adults of all ages, by offering 12 lit pickleball courts, eight turf diamonds for baseball or softball, and two multi-purpose rectangular turf fields. The facility will support both competitive leagues and casual play, with drop-in availability and rental options for teams and organizations. While youth tournaments will dominate weekends, the complex plans to accommodate adult leagues and practices on weeknights and quieter periods, with fees applied to most sports areas to help maintain the facility. Amenities like a playground, basketball court, and trail system will remain free to the public.
Despite excitement about the state-of-the-art outdoor pickleball courts, some community members express concerns about the lack of indoor facilities in the first phase, the cost to play, and the complex’s location in southeast Rochester. Local pickleball and soccer players appreciate the expanded opportunities but worry about winter play options and limited soccer fields, emphasizing the need for future expansions. The complex also presents opportunities for Rochester Community and Technical College to host larger tournaments, highlighting its potential as a regional sports hub. Overall, the project balances diverse community needs while acknowledging that not all sports or preferences can be fully accommodated initially.
