The South Hadley Selectboard approved $175,000 to repair grading issues on four new pickleball courts at Buttery Brook Park, addressing safety concerns raised by players and residents. The courts were originally built with a slope of about 2%, which exceeds the typical standard of 0.83% to 1%, leading to complaints about unsafe playing conditions. Funding for the repairs includes a $50,000 grant from U.S. Pickleball and a $91,000 donation from the Friends of Buttery Brook Park.
Despite the safety improvements, the decision comes amid financial challenges for South Hadley, including a recent 20% increase in health insurance premiums that may force budget cuts. Some Selectboard members expressed concern over the town’s strained finances and questioned how the grading error was overlooked, with one member voting against the repair funding. Nonetheless, the board ultimately voted to proceed, highlighting the ongoing challenge of balancing recreational needs with fiscal responsibility.
