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WEIRTON -- The Weirton Board of Parks and Recreation has officially added pickleball to its list of program offerings, establishing two temporary courts at Starvaggi Memorial Park.
Following discussion during its June meeting, and requests from residents, the board announced Thursday it has purchased portable game equipment to set up the temporary courts, with one tennis court and one basketball court being designated.
"We're always looking at ways to better meet the recreation needs of the community," Park Board Executive Director Coty Shingle said. "That's what we do, and the needs are really continuously changing."
The courts designated for use will have portable nets and temporary lines on the courts so residents who already have paddles and balls can use them any time the park is open and the courts are available. There also will be pickleball paddles and balls available at the pool office from noon to 6 p.m. daily during the pool season. The courts will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Officials noted usage of the courts will be monitored to see how much interest in the sport exists in the community.
"I think it's important to see how much use there is and study what times of day are the busiest," Park Board Chair Edwin J. Bowman said. "We're going to offer the temporary pickleball courts and have them clearly marked with signage designating them as such so we can accurately assess the interest and participation."
The board also has plans on establishing a fixed pickleball court in an area behind the Weirton Fire Department's headquarters station in Municipal Plaza.
"We're waiting for some equipment to get here," Shingle said. "It will be more permanent."
Also during Thursday's board meeting, Parks Program Director Chris Krishak offered reminders on some upcoming events, including the next movie and pool party, scheduled for 8 p.m. to 11 p.m., July 28 at Starvaggi Memorial Pool; the annual Marland Heights 5K on Aug. 12; and Bark in the Park at Starvaggi Memorial Pool on Aug. 21.