One of the most gratifying aspects of my job is designing infrastructure that not only provides safe transit for communities but also creates spaces for people to enjoy recreational activities that enrich the quality of their lives.
In Tarpon Springs, Fla., DRMP designed four pickleball courts at Safford Fitness Park, one of the most requested amenities from residents eager to enjoy this popular and rapidly growing sport.
This project revitalized the park by introducing well-lit pickleball courts and enhancing accessibility with improved pedestrian access and sidewalk connectivity.
As the prime consultant to the City of Tarpon Springs, DRMP created a concept plan exhibit and preliminary cost estimates for two, three, and four court configurations. After the City approved the four-court option, we moved forward with detailed construction plans, including grading, drainage, site preparation, and site-civil layout plan sheets and details. We also made sure the new courts connected to existing sidewalks and included perimeter fencing, limited landscaping with irrigation, and lighting to keep the games going after sunset.
Overcoming Project Challenges
This project had a fast-paced four-month design phase and a tight construction schedule. To keep the project on track, the City, contractor, and design team maintained constant coordination throughout the construction process.
The primary challenge was the restricted open space available to accommodate all four proposed courts. The site was constrained on all sides: existing sidewalks to the east and west, mature trees to the north, and a fitness area to the south. To address these limitations, we implemented various slab and header curb thicknesses to account for elevation changes at specific sections, allowing the courts to fit within the available space.
The project was thoughtfully designed to allow for future enhancements if budget constraints arose. For example, the two-court option included open space and stub outs for conduits and utilities, making it easier to add a third and fourth court later on. Ultimately, the budget supported the construction of all four courts, which allowed the City to move forward with the full design.
Other challenges included grading and drainage for the four courts while avoiding impacts to utilities and nearby wetlands.
For public safety, the project area was fenced off throughout construction, and temporary pedestrian traffic control was implemented to keep existing sidewalks open when necessary.
Celebrating the Park Opening
In mid-November last year, the City of Tarpon Springs celebrated the completion of the project with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that drew a large crowd of pickleball enthusiasts.
My colleagues and I attended and were proud to see dozens of residents ready to hit the courts. The new courts are already making a difference, giving residents a dedicated space to stay active, socialize, and enjoy the game.
City officials also expressed their excitement and emphasized how projects like this enhance quality of life and bring people together. It’s always rewarding to see a project go from plans to a place where the community can connect and play.
