As a fledgling pickleball player living in Fraser, I was very happy to see new pickleball courts are planned for our town. No more traveling to the two courts in Granby and crossing my fingers they aren’t occupied — or road tripping to Grand Lake to play.

However, euphoria soon turned to concern when I saw the proposed location. Pickleball is a loud sport. It’s not just the paddle whacking the ball, but also noise from players themselves. The planned courts would be located close by Fraser Elementary School, Fraser Town Hall, Grand Kids Learning Center and would be surrounded by a residential neighborhood.

Trust me, there will be noise issues for all concerned.

May I recommend another location nearby?

There is existing court space behind the ice rink at Fraser Sports Complex. There are already courts there that have fallen into disrepair and need fixing up. But more importantly, I believe they are isolated enough from population centers that noise shouldn’t be an issue.

Please consider this location instead, so we won’t have to worry about noise issues — and me telling you “I told you so!” in the future.