Planning board approves new tennis courts amid community concerns

In a recent government meeting, the Park and Recreation Department presented an updated proposal for the construction of new tennis courts, aimed at addressing community concerns and expediting the project timeline. Stacy Mulroy, representing the department, outlined significant changes made since the initial application, including the relocation of two new courts further from neighboring properties and the addition of landscaping to enhance sound and visual buffers.

The proposal has undergone multiple reviews by the planning board, which included discussions with local residents to address their concerns about noise and visual impact. As part of the modifications, the department plans to raise the fencing around the courts to 14 or 16 feet to minimize disturbances from stray tennis balls. Additionally, the hours of operation will align with the town's noise policy, and pickleball will not be permitted on the new courts.

The planning board has approved the updated site plan, which includes specific conditions such as signage to report disturbances and a 21-day appeal period for any objections. The courts have been unplayable for over four years, with local high school teams unable to use them since 2020. The department has been accommodating by relocating activities to other facilities.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that the revised proposal represents a significant improvement, balancing recreational needs with the concerns of nearby residents. The next steps involve securing funding to commence construction.