For years, the sporting courts that dominated so many parks included basketball and tennis. However, the surge in popularity of pickleball has seen a decrease in interest of tennis. Now, parks and frequent goers of those parks instead walk to the welcoming lines and low impact sport of pickleball or the tall, gleaming backboard of the basketball court. Both these sports are loved by Americans, and both scratch that competitive itch all athletes have while delivering the high-intensity and sweat that comes with a good workout. Pickleball offers an escape for all ages who wish to play a low impact sport but still wish to stay engaged and active, offering a relaxed, low stakes environment that still has that competitive element. Basketball, on the other hand, is the epitome of high-energy and competition, giving those who wish to sweat and hustle an outlet from the day's frustrations while maintaining that pick-up and play anytime feel. Besides, after the masterclass of Steph Curry in the Olympic final everyone wants to shoot and pretend to be him, if even just for a moment. Regardless, the quick back and forth of both sports are alluring prospects, and the accessibility of them make it easy to see why they are both so popular among Americans of all ages. In addition to that, both are fantastic ways to stay connected and active, and can even help with mental health by providing a much needed outlet.
It is the job of the City to look after their residents, and that includes giving them all the tools and resources they can to be active and healthy. In a world of fast-food and electronics, the interest in the outdoors is something that needs to be expanded upon. Because of this and the benefits both these sports offer, the city of Newport News, Virginia is looking for contractors who are able to install both one pickleball and basketball complex. The pickleball courts will be implemented in the empty green space, not taking away from the existing tennis courts whereas the basketball courts will be installed over the existing multi-court basketball complex. The City will remove the existing basketball courts, so contractors only job is installation and making sure that they are able to do all the work and have all materials needed to install one multi-court pickleball complex and one multi-court basketball complex at Huntington Park in Newport News, Virginia.
Both these additions will bring more activity to Huntington Park and give it a chance to host local competitions and more outdoor get togethers. This project is the result of care and consideration the City has for it's residents, and represents the commitment to fostering a healthy, connected community, while simultaneously encouraging interconnectedness and physical activity. The bid closes Friday, August 30 at 2:00 PM EST. Click here for more information.
