Pickleball Association nears fundraising goal

Oct 21, 2020 | 6:00 AM

The Vernon Pickleball Association (VPA) has raised $1,176,266 of its $1.2 million goal to enclose the Okanagan Wealth Advisors (OWA) pickleball courts at Marshall fields.

Vernon council passed a motion to cover the development cost charges of $215,000. Fundraising has included pre-payment of playing fees, debentures and donations from the 500 strong membership, that voted 96 per cent in favour of enclosing the courts.

The first of seven semi truck loads of components arrived earlier this month, with Rennie Construction from Lumby doing the assembly.

(photo credit/Vernon Pickleball Association)

The VPA has also updated its lease agreement with the city detailing fees and when non-members can use the facilities, for year round use.

Water Shut Off Response

Fruit Growers Association call for plan to support farmers amid water shortage

38m ago

42-Unit Project

Fees waived for new supportive housing project in Vernon

1h ago

Investigation underway

One person deceased after fire at North Okanagan farm

4h ago

The roof will be a steel truss and fabric covering. The newly covered and heated pickleball courts should be ready for use by the end of 2020.

There are 12 permanent courts and two additional set-up courts to be used for wheelchair pickleball or warm-up during tournaments.

While lighting isn’t required during daytime hours, a GoFundMe account has been set up to raise $50,000 toward lighting the facility for nighttime play. The courts logged 88,000 hours of play this season.

by Kevin Rothwell

View Comments