The William Crawford Senior Park Court Reconstruction Project is underway, delivering improved recreational facilities for Woodlanders. The project, approved at the February 6 City Council meeting, involves the demolition and reconstruction of old tennis court surfacing into six new pickleball courts. The tennis courts at Crawford Park were constructed in the late 1970s and have since developed cracks that cannot be repaired. City staff worked with Callander Associates and the Woodland Area Pickleball Association to design the new pickleball courts, which will be the first exclusive pickleball courts in Woodland.

These new pickleball courts will include posts for permanent pickleball nets, four-foot fencing to divide each of the courts, gates to close the existing gaps between courts, and new fencing. The new pickleball courts are scheduled to open to the public by mid-August. 

According to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association, pickleball has been the fastest growing sport in the United States for the past five years, with 8.9 million players reported in 2022. The City has accommodated the growing popularity of pickleball by hosting indoor pickleball at the Community & Senior Center and adding pickleball lines to existing tennis courts in several city parks. However, the lack of pickleball courts in Woodland has posed challenges to players, as they cannot play without bringing their own net. The Crawford Reconstruction Project addresses this current lack of accessibility and provides a public facility for Woodland residents to enjoy outdoor pickleball.  

Pickleball courts and tennis courts will continue to be available to the public during the reconstruction process. Pickleball lines are available on the tennis courts at Beamer Park and Rick Gonzales Senior Park. Tennis courts are available at City Park, Woodside Park, Beamer Park, and Rick Gonzales Senior Park. In addition, the Woodland Area Pickleball Association offers lessons and clinics for pickleball players. Visit their website for information regarding membership, class schedules, and open play times. 

“We are excited to begin reconstruction of the Crawford Park courts to create Woodland’s only exclusive pickleball facilities,” said Woodland Mayor Tania Garcia-Cadena. “This project advances the City’s efforts to invest in recreational spaces and improve Woodland residents’ quality of life. We wanted to do our part to acknowledge the growing number of pickleball players in the community and ensure that the sport is more accessible for all.”

Questions about Crawford Park and other public parks can be directed to the Community Services Department at (530) 661-2000.