The Roe Lake and District Recreation Commission received a $16,813 Community Places grant from Northern Development to complete outdoor pickleball courts adjacent to the Interlakes Community Centre in Bridge Lake.
During the summer of 2023, two pickleball courts were constructed on a portion of the commission’s six-acre parcel of land. The project involved excavation and the installation of a 60-foot by 60-foot asphalt pad. Volunteers then spent hours lining, painting, and fencing the two courts to make them playable for the community.
To finalize the project, the courts were professionally coated with a Plexipave surface to improve playability, and seating and signage will be installed.
Pickleball, one of North America’s fastest-growing sports, requires minimal investment to play and fosters community engagement. Before the outdoor courts were available, residents were limited to playing on a single indoor court. Since the new courts opened, local participation has surged from 958 players in 2022 to 1,433 by the end of 2023, highlighting the sport’s increasing popularity. The outdoor courts are the only dedicated pickleball courts available to residents and visitors along the Highway 24 corridor and are free to use outside of scheduled programming.
“The funding from Northern Development has been a game-changer for our community, allowing the enhancement of the pickleball courts at the Interlakes Community Centre,” said Crista Herod, program coordinator. “It’s provided a dedicated space for pickleball players to come together, stay active, and build connections, all while boosting the overall health and vibrancy of our community.”
With the courts seeing heavy use last year, there is already excitement building for the return of outdoor play as soon as the snow clears.
In 2021, Northern Development also provided funding for the resurfacing of pickleball courts in the District of Mackenzie with a $24,500 Community Places grant.
“The District of Mackenzie is very appreciative for the continued support from Northern Development Trust. The funds received to resurface an existing tennis court to accommodate both tennis and pickleball has allowed us to provide another option promoting health and wellness,” said Mayor Joan Atkinson. “As we all know pickleball has become one of the fastest growing activities, primarily because it is accessible to all ages. We are very grateful to NDIT for helping us promote another opportunity for our residents to connect with each other.”
Other Pickleball Projects Funded by Northern Development:
$30,000 Community Places grant (2024) – Creation of four outdoor pickleball courts in Dawson Creek as part of a multi-use outdoor facility.
$40,721 Recreation Infrastructure grant (2022) – Resurfacing of pickleball courts at the Prince George Tennis Club.
