SPOKANE, Wash. — The City of Spokane is combining infrastructure necessity with community recreation by installing pickleball courts atop newly constructed underground storm water tanks in East Spokane.
The courts, located on East Sprague behind Zips on Lee Street, are part of a broader storm drain project managed by the city’s Public Works Department. The facility will open in approximately one month.
“Pickleball’s a very popular sport, and anytime you put some outdoor activities, people tend to use them,” said Kirstin Davis, communications manager for the city.
The new courts sit on top of combined sewer overflow tanks that are prevalent throughout Spokane. Rather than leaving the area above the tanks vacant, city officials partnered with the Parks Department to develop an amenity that would serve the community while addressing necessary infrastructure upgrades.
“Anytime we can do something above ground that is an amenity, because we’re already having to do something underground, it really maximizes those public dollars to bring benefits to the community in terms of environmental protection and activity,” Davis said.
The city selected pickleball courts for several practical reasons. “It’s easier to maintain, it’s the right kind of activity and we know there’s a demand for pickleball courts in the city,” Davis explained.
According to Public Works officials, this project represents one of many initiatives designed to bring more people and activity to the East Spokane area. The Parks Department will manage reservations and access to the courts once they become operational.
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