The Town of Middletown, Rhode Island, is actively pursuing the construction of up to six new pickleball courts at John Clarke Park, with an estimated project cost of $733,000. The town council has approved seeking grant funding from the state Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM), which could cover up to $400,000 of the cost, while the remainder may come from the town’s operating budget or open space bond proceeds. The town is also exploring a partnership with the YMCA of Newport County to support the project, which aims to meet growing community demand for pickleball facilities, a sport that has rapidly gained popularity locally.
John Clarke Park is considered an ideal location due to town ownership of the land, its distance from residential areas (mitigating noise concerns), and ample parking. The project aligns with the YMCA’s mission and Middletown’s goal to enhance recreational opportunities. While the town plans to submit the grant application soon, funding remains uncertain, especially given tight budget constraints for Fiscal 2025. Town officials emphasize the importance of external funding and partnerships to move the project forward amid competing financial priorities.
