Commission hears plan to resurface courts for pickleball; staff seeks $150,000 local share

Staff outlined a proposed resurfacing project to support pickleball and tennis play, citing outreach from local pickleball and tennis groups and the school district. Best said the city could redo one court for about $300,000 using asphalt finished with an acrylic surface; staff proposed asking the general fund for $150,000 and working with local clubs and the school district to cover the rest or find outside funding.

Best said the project could be done at Kenai Central High School (KCHS) or at the middle school and that the plan would aim to preserve existing fencing where possible to save costs. Bids have not yet been solicited; staff derived cost estimates from comparable projects (adjusted for inflation) and will proceed with a standard RFP process if the project advances. Commissioners signaled support and staff said they will continue coordination with community clubs and the schools.