FOLLOWUP: Lincoln Park pickleball project gets promised page

Sarah October 9, 2023 (2:13 pm)

Putting this out there again: Kersti, please stop littering the park with your petition flyers. It’s disrespectful and childish, and several of us are tired of taking them down each day. If anyone doubted Kersti condones the posting, check out this on her Instagram feed:

ಠ_ಠ October 9, 2023 (3:30 pm)

Stop being such a Karen. I have a hunch that Kersti might have a better idea of potential environmental impact than you do. Her advocacy might not get her anywhere, maybe it will. Regardless, I’d rather have her advocacy than take Seattle Parks and Rec at their word. They are, at best, a poorly run organization where, often times, the right hand doesn’t know what the left hand is doing. Your Karen-ing about these fliers can go somewhere else to vent. You’ve already posted about this before.
KB October 9, 2023 (3:49 pm)

Regardless of what side of the debate a person falls on, I’m not sure it warrants criticizing someone because they have a different opinion (using descriptors like “childish” and “disrespectful”). I’m undecided on this topic, but personal attacks aren’t going to win neutral parties over.
- Sarah October 9, 2023 (6:24 pm)
  
  You don’t think it’s disrespectful of the environment to tape and staple propaganda flyers all over trees? Guess we disagree.
  - WSLV October 9, 2023 (8:23 pm)
    
    Sarah, your post is infinitely more childish as is your attack on an individual that as of today represents the concern and voice of over 2,200 people. If parks and rec can’t take the time to listen to the community at large – that’s all opinions then it’s Kersti and people like her that step in to ensure it is. If you’re taking them down what does it say about you?
    - BP Writer October 10, 2023 (10:38 am)
      
      There are many reasons people have signed the petition. Number of signatures does not indicate widespread objection to this project. I am a biologist, wildlife activist, and author here in West Seattle and do not agree with Kersti here. I certainly disagree with taping flyers all over the park trees. There is simply no excuse for such disregard for this park.Back to the petition signatures… first, the petition is misleading and confusing. It states Parks Dept. will build over natural areas. Then it also includes the potential dog OLA, which is unrelated to the pickleball courts. Then she has chosen to put the petition in spaces that are seen by lots of tourists to the park who do not know anything about the plan. The petition is posted at the Troll, for goodness’s sake! Of course it’s going to draw a lot of signatures. It’s grandstanding and is absolutely disrespectful and draws attention from the actual threats to wildlife.
    - Save the potatoes! October 10, 2023 (5:17 pm)
      
      This petition has 10x the signatures! It must be super important then!
gogogo October 9, 2023 (3:56 pm)

Go Kersti! Also, knowing her, she will be the first to remove them after this protest is over.
- Read October 9, 2023 (8:48 pm)
  
  Maybe if people put things up that were actually accurate then people would respect their signs and movements more. This sign clearly states wrong information. They wrote this, Seattle Parks and Recreation is planning to replace a portion of Lincoln Park’s natural habitat with pickleball courts?!how is a tennis court that has been used as storage natural habitat? They are repurposing an unused tennis court and making it into pickle ball courts. Is the tennis court some animals natural habitat that i am unaware of?
  - Protect the Park October 10, 2023 (3:57 pm)
    
    Read, please dig into this issue. You ask several questions that could be answered by doing some research, rather than stating something is “wrong”, without having the knowledge to make that statement. Understand that the habitat (especially immediately next to and above the decommissioned area will be greatly impacted by the noise, lights and increased traffic this court (which has no demonstrated need) will bring. The habitat is greater than just the surface.I too am a wildlife biologist, published and an activist whatever that means) and a long time resident. This will impact the park on many levels, have no doubt.Again there is no need to be doing this and every reason to question the immediacy that Parks is moving with especially without consultation and in contradiction to their own policies and land use guidelines.
    - zark00 October 13, 2023 (3:02 pm)
      
      If you can, go take a look at the current usage of the old tennis court area. I’m pretty sure it is not benefitting the natural habitat at all right now. It doesn’t seem like cleaning up the area, removing the blocks and random junk stored there would be more disruptive than how it’s currently being used. Maybe lights are a huge deal or something, I’m not sure they’re even in the plan, but that area is already open, it’s right by the sports fields. The little grove of trees there around the courts is just to help separate the sporting areas of the park from the natural canopy areas isn’t it? It seems like maybe the conflict with this particular ‘save the parks vs cool stuff for visitors’ debate is a lot of people don’t really know the area they are trying to protect and are imagining it taking a huge chunk out of ‘wild’ park of Lincoln. I’m very much in support of preserving Lincoln, but this doesn’t seem like we’re preserving anything of value. An off leash dog area is 100% a non-starter, I’ll go protest in person to try to stop that ever happening at Lincoln. But this one really seems like it will be more of a benefit than a detriment. I honestly think cleaning that small area up will benefit wildlife more than leaving it as it is.
whattheheck October 9, 2023 (4:05 pm)

why are you taking them down? do you not believe in free speech and sharing critical information about the park we all know and love? not everyone reads the blog. don’t start with ‘littering’ as you know Kersti loves and honors the environment more than most – she’ll take them down once this is over. it’s important that we let people know and so they can make their OWN choices. hiding it and disrupting the efforts of others that are trying to spread the word is childish.
- Alki resident October 9, 2023 (6:22 pm)
  
  It’s false information that’s being told to people. Nobody wants to be lied to or misinformed. Seems simple to be truthful
- Sarah October 9, 2023 (6:35 pm)
  
  Flyers can be posted on the park bulletin boards. There are several. I continue to note that I *still* have not seen any flyers posted on the board by the Kenyon/Fauntleroy crosswalk. I’m not messing with flyers on the boards, but it’s extra frustrating to find these littered (yes, it’s litter) on random trees but not on the boards literally intended for these notices!
  - 1994 October 9, 2023 (9:55 pm)
    
    The flyers are offensive. They are visually inappropriate to be posted on trees. The flyers are like screaming little dogs that don’t know when to stop barking, annoying to look at and annoying to hear.
- WS Res October 9, 2023 (6:57 pm)
  
  Where’s our “follow rules because rules are more important than people” commentariat? I thought people who broke minor rules and regulations basically deserve to be arrested on the spot. Flyers can be posted on bulletin boards. Nothing should be attached to trees in the park; it’s everyone’s park, right?
  - Sarah October 11, 2023 (11:14 am)
    
    Think about what it would be like if everyone felt entitled to post flyers on trees for their pet causes. Also, I regularly pick up litter; should I stop doing so because people will just litter again? How am *I* the problem here?
M October 9, 2023 (4:13 pm)

Have you tried not taking them down?
Alki resident October 9, 2023 (4:20 pm)

Thanks for posting this ridiculous petition again, the sleepless nights” makes me laugh since the park actually has open and close schedule.
IHeartBPP October 9, 2023 (4:24 pm)

Sarah, tearing down the signs and littering…I saw them on the ground…is childish. I support Kersti and her efforts to stop this unethical treatment of the people of Seattle who want to have input on a public project. And I have been sharing those QR codes far and wide. Let EVERYONE be heard. Not just those with whom you agree.
- Sarah October 9, 2023 (6:27 pm)
  
  To be clear, I’m taking them down and carrying them with me to dispose of properly. If you’re seeing them on the ground, that was either someone else or (most likely) the natural result of plastic packing tape failing to stick to trees in damp weather.
john October 9, 2023 (4:34 pm)

Thank you Sarah for posting this photo and screen grab.
Thank you WSB for publishing.
These shamefully entitled actions, intentionally littering our park with false misleading plastic cased flyers have no place in serious discourse.

The claims being fronted as reasons not to allow pickleball in the old courts are ludicrous.
For the record, in the late sixties, Chief Sealth High School played its matches and practiced at these old courts.
I was one of many who were raised playing them, playing at night (when not raining) with the mechanical timer on the lights that would suddenly shut off.
Those courts, similar to the ones lost at Lowman Beach, were unique in their own ways and dearly missed.
I believe the last time I played at the old courts was in the mid-eighties and Parks was allowing them to deteriorate.
These courts are already surrounded on three sides with chainlink fence and are situated down a viewing slope of grass from the baseball diamond’s plane. This berm will reduce pickleball noise.
Pickleball is also played close to the court, no moon ball returns. The low flying ball is ideal for this location.
The concern about old tennis court trees seems specious, as they were planted after the courts were constructed. The trees will diminish sound and control light spill of modern lights focused and designed for courts.
Ilook forward to seeing the old courts re-vitalized.
I’ve never played pickleball but with this good news, I might pick up a paddle.
AT October 9, 2023 (4:42 pm)

I wonder what’s her beef with Landscape Architects? It’s a professional license that’s not easy to attain.
- Sarah October 9, 2023 (6:22 pm)
  
  Yeah, equating the presence of a landscape architect to a guarantees tree removal plan is just disingenuous. Conferring with a landscape architect is a good sign here. Generally a LA goal is to work within the current environment to achieve the desired outcome witg minimal disruption. The claim that this means trees will be removed is alarmist; Parks would have to follow the same review process as any other developer before taking out any of those trees.
Al King October 9, 2023 (4:45 pm)

Sarah. Thank you! People FIRST. Wildlife can and should fend for itself. We need to do more to protect our right to do what we want anywhere we want.
- Sarah October 9, 2023 (6:19 pm)
  
  Look, I’m all for a lot of steps to protect wildlife. That includes literally in my own backyard. However, I think the fight against this particular use is overblown and performative. It is not about what best serves the community, but about what platforms the “scientist.”
- C October 9, 2023 (7:58 pm)
  
  That kind of thinking is why people are slowly going to go extinct. You do realize the animals were here before you? Such selfish and ignorant remarks are sad.
- Ly October 9, 2023 (9:09 pm)
  
  What a terrible comment. People like you are why wildlife suffer.
- Ly October 9, 2023 (9:13 pm)
  
  Wildlife can fend for themselves. Lol. Yeah because that’s what they do, right? Lol. Tell that to Tokitae’s family.
- Cat Girl October 10, 2023 (6:14 am)
  
  The “people first” view point in why our climate is changing so fast. I guess you like choking on wildfire smoke every year. I’m so disgusted by this comment.
Rhonda October 9, 2023 (5:23 pm)

Good for Kersti. I greatly appreciate her posting those to keep park patrons informed.
- Alki resident October 9, 2023 (6:27 pm)
  
  You are falsely bring informed. Does that not bother you?
Barton October 10, 2023 (9:58 am)

Is there a link to the petition? I see the QR but can’t figure out if I can somehow get to it from my phone.
Protect the park October 10, 2023 (3:46 pm)

I thoroughly support Kersti and her efforts. In fact, allow me to join in and put more signs up myself.Glad to see most of the folks here find Sarah’s posts and actions problematic.

Alki resident October 9, 2023 (2:21 pm)

Thank you ARC, I will be sure to contribute funds to you in the future. This is exciting to hear that West Seattle will possibly get two pickle ball courts. We surely have enough families in our area to fill the spots to play!

Sarah October 9, 2023 (2:29 pm)

Also, thank you, WSB, for providing up-front the funding details. Maybe that will put to rest rumors of a shady pickleball cabal (pickabal?) bribing Seattle Parks… but probably not. People were upset this was being funded by their tax dollars, then upset it was privately funded by “special interest.” Can’t win!

Kyle October 9, 2023 (2:44 pm)

I’m sure the Hiawatha community center will reopen sometime this millennium. Amazing how Park fast tracks some things and other things, like playgrounds take years of red tape to move forward.

S October 9, 2023 (2:59 pm)

Parks Dept: The main criteria used in selecting this court is that it does not conflict with tennis – in that the court has been unused and mainly used for storage – it meets geographic distribution, residential remoteness, and accessibility criteria.
*geographic distribution: the natural arrangement and apportionment of the various forms of animals and plants in the different regions and localities of the earth.
It doesn’t conflict with tennis, however it does conflict with park goers.
Wondering what studies or how data was collected to meet geographic distribution.

Neighbor October 9, 2023 (3:45 pm)

1. Private funding source

2. Space already aligns with planned use

3. Doesn’t require production and installation of large equipment

Voila, quick win! Kind of like how you wouldn’t hold up repairing a squeaky hinge just because you had earlier identified wanting a kitchen remodel.
- S October 9, 2023 (6:25 pm)
  
  There is no info provided on how and when Parks determined that Pickleball’s high decibel noise and installation of lights meets geographic distribution given this was fast tracked and Lincoln Park wasn’t even included on their original list of potential locations. Your list doesn’t address the concern in the original comment.
  - SaveOurParks October 10, 2023 (9:38 am)
    
    I thought the noise would be negligible given that Seattle Parks fast-tracked this without any input at all from the public. Turns out that noise is a legit concern. Apparently pickleball comes in at 70 dBA at 100 feet from the court. (In comparison, tennis noise is closer to 40 dBA.) Also, the pitch is the same as a trash truck backing up. The reason this pitch was selected for trash trucks is to ensure that no one could miss the alert. Imagine trying to enjoy a walk or picnic, or even the playground a few yards from this space with that racket? The City is being irresponsible and it seems almost punitive. A FOIA request should uncover the reasoning behind this questionable decision. Laziness to shut the pickleball associations up or perhaps something else?

D.C. October 9, 2023 (3:45 pm)

Pro points for prolific ‘P’ alliteration

Jay October 9, 2023 (3:54 pm)

How does pickleball get fast-tracked in days with no public comment, but new hiking and biking trails through areas with blackberry barrens and old trash-filled campsites take DECADES to get approval for volunteers to build and fund themselves? Compare this to projects like Cheasty. There’s something fishy here, this must be a pet project or some other corruption happening. I’m with Kersti until we get some answers and transparency. Pickleball is a new fad that only picked up in the last couple years and we’re committing a ton of money and public space to the hobby with no public participation. Pickleball courts are going in all over Seattle. Seems very extreme. How is there already a powerful pickleball lobby? It’s so weird.

Alki resident October 9, 2023 (6:33 pm)

The courts been there since the 60’s so not sure how this will be a huge project. It’s actually NOT going to cost “ a ton of money” hence more the reason to do this. Pickle ball is quite a popular sport and not a fad. And once it’s remodeled it’ll bring even more players.
BLK October 9, 2023 (7:23 pm)

Jay–My thoughts exactly. I’m also curious to hear from residents of the gorgeous condos/townhouses across ftom the proposed courts. Wonder if they’re concerned about the noise & night lighting….I sure would be.This unilateral decision by “parks” reeks.
- WSB October 9, 2023 (7:38 pm)
  
  Are you thinking of another site? There are no “condos/townhouses” anywhere nearby, gorgeous or otherwise. If you walk east a ways, you get to the LP north (main) parking lot, and across Fauntleroy Way from that are single-family houses. You can see via Google Street View 360.
- Sarah October 9, 2023 (7:44 pm)
  
  Yeah, there are literally no residences “across” from these courts.

Ant October 9, 2023 (4:10 pm)

Hell hath no fury like a senior citizen with an interest in pickleball.

MM October 10, 2023 (6:41 pm)

Haha this is spot on!!

Rick fraser October 9, 2023 (4:21 pm)

I am an avid pb player, but pb does not fit in Lincoln Park. LP has provided me with decades of enrichment and solice. The sounds of baseball play, kids having birthday parties, runners, horseshoes and occasional concerts all seem to “fit” within my meanderings. The clack clack of pb will not. Most likely I won’t notice it much if I keep a significant distance from the courts, and that’s my point; I don’t have to keep a distance from those other activities mentioned above to enjoy the park. There are 6 tennis courts across the street. Dedicate two of them for pb. And if pb doesn’t belong there, it sure as heck does not belong within the trees and trails of Lincoln Park.

Annie October 9, 2023 (8:05 pm)

It would be great to hear more from players like yourself. There are a few comments here from others that seem to see why this is not a good spot for pickle ball courts. I want a bigger tree canopy as well as some refuge from the sound of cars/machines. A place for children to play and see nature. It is super crazy that the PB courts might be done before they even start the south children’s play area that was deconstructed about 6 years ago. The Superintendent of P &R AP Diaz plays tennis and has children . Maybe he could pivot the situation and get the children’s playground done with the $140,000.
- WSB October 9, 2023 (8:20 pm)
  
  The LP South playground is not a matter of money. As we have chronicled in endless detail over those years, and recently updated, they’ve awarded the contract … last delay, Parks says, is that the contractor has to work somewhere else first, and the actual play equipment is back-ordered. So we’ll see in a few months if that really IS the last delay …
  https://westseattleblog.com/2023/09/followup-contractor-chosen-but-long-delayed-west-seattle-play-area-projects-wont-be-done-before-next-year/

Mark Ahlness October 9, 2023 (4:23 pm)

I am absolutely appalled by this decision. Sorry that “several” people had to take down fliers letting people actually know what is going on. I speak as one of over 2,000 people who have signed the petition (141 have signed so far today) against pickleball courts in Lincoln Park. This is so wrong, for a multitude of reasons. Parks has no idea. Or they don’t care. Unbelievable.

Alki resident October 9, 2023 (6:40 pm)

Hi Mark, if you read the petition you’ll see there are a lot of false pretenses being said against this project. I would be livid if I was signing a petition and not being told the truth. The concrete slab has sat there since the 60’s, there’s no way we shouldn’t revitalize it and bring more residents into the park. Not to mention it won’t break the bank nor will construction trucks be needed in the park. I hardly think the amount of people that signed the petition live in West Seattle nor use Lincoln Park. Either way, lots of us are looking forward to this .
- Sarah October 9, 2023 (7:32 pm)
  
  In fact, one of the flyers is posted right by Bruun Idun, our Damby troll. I am positive most of the petition signatures are originating from well-intentioned troll visitors.
  - IHeartBPP October 9, 2023 (9:49 pm)
    
    Sarah, Alki Resident (sorta)…a lot of people don’t want the pickle ball courts there. We will use our voices, resources, and influence to stop the construction. You’ve said your peace, we’ve said ours. You don’t need to personally attack everyone who feels different than you.

snowskier October 9, 2023 (4:39 pm)

Amazing how they quickly waffled away from their original plans to stripe the Solstice Park courts. I’m guessing that restriping costs less than $140K. And meanwhile……about that playground they tore out over 6 years ago……I guess the children aren’t donating money like the seniors.

Glenn October 10, 2023 (6:16 am)

Low priority considering there is a perfectly good and new playground on the other side of the park

anonyme October 9, 2023 (4:44 pm)

So, where are we going to build the new forested park and nature reserve where people and wildlife can escape the noise, unwind, and enjoy nature, now that Lincoln Park has been designated a sports facility? Why are so many park visitors being denied a voice?

john October 10, 2023 (11:14 am)

If you are actually interested in an answer.
The numerous parks and greenspaces that are not developed.
There are gems all over West Seattle –
Close to Lincoln is Fauntleroy Park, completely wild.
The legendary Emma Schmitz in Admiral.
Camp Long’s wonderlands.
The greenspaces off of Bonair Dr. that traverse the hillside.
Same for along Harbor Avenue above Salty’s.
And the vast network of trails through the greenspace forests adjacent to Southwest Community College.
The West Duwamish Greenspaces.
The parks along the Duwamish.
We also have hidden little neighborhood parks so coveted by surrounding neighbors that there is no signage like the one just east of California Ave up Orchard Street, totally quiet.
We also have the greenspace and waterfront donated by Stimson Bullit along Marine View Drive and the Arroyos.
Plus the newly stablished Heron’s Nest Project near the Duwamish Tribal Building.
- Protect the park October 10, 2023 (4:02 pm)
  
  There are also many (unused) courts all over WS ready for PB and Tennis.We don’t need to spoil LP, nor remove it from your list above.
Sarah October 10, 2023 (12:35 pm)

Just so we’re all on the same page, you’re saying the renovation of courts adjacent to existing recreational fields is the tipping point from nature preserve to “sports facility”? Are we talking about the same project? I added the red box to this map to be sure, because there must be a misunderstanding here.

Max October 9, 2023 (4:50 pm)

Amazing how fast this is progressing. How many years has it been that the lower playground has been waiting for repairs? The Solstice Park tennis courts are ALWAYS empty. Even on a beautiful, sunny day. Why not re-stripe those?

Ly October 9, 2023 (8:54 pm)

Exactly. Years for the play area to go up and then this gets fast tracked. From all I’ve read and learned about this, not a fan.
Steph October 9, 2023 (9:47 pm)

Oh no! When I first heard about this I was upset that my favorite tree in the entire park is going to get destroyed. It’s very close to these old courts. It’s a magnificent multi branched Cedar that unfortunately has taken a lot of abuse in the past few years with people removing branches, cutting the bark, and lack of water. I would so much love to have this tree. Of course it’s not feasible to move it. I’m afraid if they try to cut it down I will have to chain my septuagenarian body to it in protest and hope people bring me food and water and I don’t freeze to death. There are enough branches about six of us could do it together and from the tone of some of these pickleball fanatics it might be safer to have a little crowd. I’ve watched so many of the grand old trees in Lincoln Park be destroyed it breaks my heart.It’s our park. The trees and wildlife were there first. We pay taxes to maintain it, not to neglect the flora and pave and light the place up. Our grandchildren will not be able to enjoy the magic of the beautiful forest Lincoln Park used to be.The arrogance of the Parks Department is shocking. Time for them to be replaced!
- john October 10, 2023 (10:49 am)
  
  I can’t imagine the magnificent tree you recall, or any other for that matter, will be removed for pickleball courts.
  
  The court area has been paved for the better part of century.
  
  The fences are the same as original.
  The trees surrounding the court were planted during the construction of the tennis courts.
  
  The history of these old courts and Lincoln Park as an outdoor recreation center cannot be denied with these revisionist claims and scare tactics.

Matty October 9, 2023 (5:07 pm)

BUILD MORE POOLS. Colman pool is open 6 weeks a year. It has a full time caretaker but can’t open up before July. Schools can barely get pool time for practices let alone meets. Pools here were designed with different needs — we need better facilities now.

Duwamesque October 9, 2023 (6:11 pm)

This is the most ridiculous NIMBY tantrum I can remember witnessing. The so-called “environmentalists” now are littering to further their cause? What a hill to die on. Brava West Seattle Karens, bravissima!

mem October 9, 2023 (6:29 pm)

I don’t understand the controversy? Pickleball courts will not cause any more disruption to animal habitats than the Colman Pool- which is another great use of space for physical activity. Yes, humans are noisy but quite frankly so are the yappy dogs that chase any movement in the park. The re-purposing of tennis courts to Pickleball courts will not affect the existing tree canopy and we will happily brush off any fallen leaves just as we currently do at Delridge or High Point. The parks Dept has been talking about switching these courts from tennis to Pickleball for at least two years now. Just because you were unaware of it does not mean there has been zero transparency!! What is wrong with providing space for an activity that thousands of West Seattlites have taken up? The Pickleball community has provided an avenue to make social connections, promote physical activity/ health and have a lot of fun. Can’t we make room for everyone in our parks? Why must we be at odds with one another all the time?

Alayna October 9, 2023 (7:20 pm)

Colman Pool is downstairs, along the water, pretty far away from the forest. The place they are going to put the pickleball courts is in the forested upstairs area, where lots of wildlife lives. It’s a quiet, secluded spot.
- Neighbor 2 October 9, 2023 (7:33 pm)
  
  Right, because down by the water there’s no wildlife to protect!
- Alki resident October 9, 2023 (7:39 pm)
  
  The pool is across a path from the woods. You can see Eagle nests from the pool

In a Pickle October 9, 2023 (7:04 pm)

Before the mid-park tennis courts were turned into dirt storage areas, my husband and I played or tried to play tennis there. The courts frequently were covered with leaves and needles and did not dry quickly after a rain. Maybe pickle ball players can collectively keep them clean. The plastic balls don’t mind being wet, but slipping while playing doesn’t seem fun to me. Where I want the line drawn is to prohibit lighting that would allow night play. Lights truly would be disturbing to the wildlife. Using lights in the middle of the park sets a very bad precedent for the use of lights in other parts of the park.

Alki resident October 9, 2023 (7:24 pm)

For those saying that pickle ball is a fad. There are 5 million players in America alone. Eric Johnson, Komo news, did a story about the origin of pickle ball where three men back in the 60’s from Bainbridge, created this game because their children were bored. It’s a great story and Eric won an award for this story.

Alayna October 9, 2023 (7:25 pm)

Still so upset about this. Even if those were tennis courts 50 years ago, tennis is not nearly as loud as pickleball. Tennis courts don’t even fit in that area of the park any more, putting in a very loud sport in the middle of this quiet nature park is so sad. Why not at Lowman Beach, where they just took out tennis courts? Or Solstice, where it’s actually just supposed to be? Even where the playground used to be on the south side of the park is okay, it’s at least on the edge of the forest instead of smack in the middle of it.

Max October 9, 2023 (7:33 pm)

All you have to do is look up “pickleball noise complaints ” on the internet to realize what a bad idea this is for Lincoln Park. How many peaceful, relatively quiet places to do we have to enjoy nature in a crowded city? Might as well open an off leash dog park and a zip-line through the woods. We can call it The Fun Forest.

Ly October 9, 2023 (8:56 pm)

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/30/sports/pickleball-noise-complaints-lawsuits.html

KP October 9, 2023 (7:42 pm)

The private funders are rich Fauntleroy residents who didn’t want ‘their’ tennis courts adapted, they found the way to thwart altering existing courts. Unnatural lights and noise in the middle of the park will disrupt wildlife and the purpose of foundational legacy parks. The mayor needs to step up and stop this until all voices are heard. The fact this is moving so quickly is ridiculous. Especially in the setting Parks have dragged their feet 6 years in restoring a play ground (so called supply chain issues are ridiculous and completely unmerited 6 years in).

Lee P. October 9, 2023 (8:30 pm)

So Fauntleroy residents are against this entirely but also have funded the project to preserve the Solstice tennis courts? Wow you’re right you cracked the code.
Alki resident October 9, 2023 (8:33 pm)

Anyone can donate money to ARC. So how are RICH Fauntleroy residents having anything to do with this? Seems to me if any RICH people contributed to anything in West Seattle to eat at, be entertained or otherwise, we should be grateful for it. This very old concrete slab is NOT in the middle of the park and since it’s clear you e never seen it, you can’t come here and assume there’s going to be so much intolerable noise that’s going to affect wildlife or residents. Why aren’t you attempting to shut down Fauntleroy all together from all of the motorcycles, buses, trucks and cars. Not to mention the endless daily sirens.
WS Resident October 9, 2023 (9:43 pm)

Factually incorrect…

We don’t need to make this about tennis versus pickleball. I’m willing to bet you don’t play either. Clearly there are people who play each sport that dislike the people that play the other sport, for no good reason and it’s playing out in the comments. Read the comments above from the WSB about the playground delays. Educate yourself.It’s also not moving THAT fast. They just finally got the funding to do what they’ve wanted to for a while. The courts had previously been on the drawing board but they chose to go with other plans that would fit the funding they had available. Then they got the grant. Then they decided to go with the option they wanted all along.The mayor has better things to do than sit and listen to petulant citizens complain about pickleball courts in a “parks and rec” (the show) style setting. It’s also not funded by rich Fauntleroy residents, it’s by the ARC which is an organization that is not specific to Fauntleroy, go to their site and you will see how widespread their projects are. if you look at the official “parks legacy plan”, it details that they’re goal is to plan for the recreational needs of the citizens. Pickleball is very popular and needs more space than is currently built. It’s well within the purpose of the parks and RECREATION department to choose to build a RECREATIONAL facility. such first world problems…

hopingforbetter October 9, 2023 (8:23 pm)

If ARC values social equity, I hope they will consider folks that don’t have big yards or houses in which to find the peaceful quiet that Lincoln Park provides. I see many folks in the park of all backgrounds coming to enjoy nature and the rare slice of quiet and reflection that our beautiful park provides. Please reconsider, ARC, as there should be equal access to peace and quiet. There are already 40 pickleball courts. There are very few experiences available to all like Lincoln Park. Please. Reconsider.

MM October 9, 2023 (8:29 pm)

I don’t normally feel compelled to sign a petition but reading some of the comments above and witnessing first hand rude and obnoxious pickleball players thinking they are entitled to use tennis courts that have been booked for kids coaching and walking through the middle of lessons when they know they are in the wrong gives me no sympathy. Save the peace and quiet for the wildlife, hikers etc – maybe set up a pickleball on quiet street – so many other options….

Alki resident October 10, 2023 (7:29 am)

Have you ever witnessed rude and obnoxious little league teams? They’re aplenty , haven’t seen much complaining on that subject.

NC October 9, 2023 (9:22 pm)

I remember when the tennis courts were still in use. And that was neat, but back then, we also still had a lot of green space in West Seattle…I used to play in the woods across the street from me that’s now been completely developed and that has happened all across town. Lincoln Park is one of the few quiet green spaces we have left. We can play pickleball at Delridge and High point, add lines to tennis courts at SWAC and at the Fauntleroy courts, but we can’t get more green space back. Can’t we try to leave Lincoln Park as natural as we can?

Teri October 19, 2023 (7:13 pm)

Well said NC

No pickle ball in Lincoln Park October 10, 2023 (4:20 am)

I’ll be signing that petition and emailing the City. It’s a sanctuary.

April October 10, 2023 (11:39 am)

Agreed with you! Leave our sanctuary park alone!!!
Alki resident October 10, 2023 (4:07 pm)

You’ll be signing a petition with false information. Do your research before signing stuff like this. You’re being mislead.

Sslal October 10, 2023 (6:19 am)

I live by the delridge community center and the pickleball players create a lot of noise there. It’s a constant activity and a daily thing. That would be the main concern. It’s not a pleasant sound.

Wsresident October 10, 2023 (6:35 am)

I’m going to ask a potentially controversial question, why is pb even a thing? I’ve played a few times and it felt like a lazy off-shoot from tennis for people who are far less athletic but want to seem athletic. I’m genuinely curious from those that play why PB and not just play tennis? Also, the noise is so super annoying I’m certain just the noise alone will be disruptive to native species living in LP. I’m no nay-sayer but having a PB court in the middle of LP will surely change the serene vibe of walking in the woods. What about the park by Morgan junction? Seems perfect!

CARGUY October 10, 2023 (1:20 pm)

Why don’t tennis players just play ping pong? Totally different sports. Yes, all 3 of these sports can be played competitively, but pickle ball is the cheapest, and easiest to play. Ever see how much a ping pong table is? Or a good tennis racket? Great for people who don’t want to invest in a new hobby but want to get some outdoor sport time with a VERY low barrier of entry (skill & cost) I’ve never seen a racket/paddle sport that is more inclusive as pickleball in regards to age/gender/race. I’ve played maybe 6-7 times now and it is some of the nicest people I’ve met. Only place where a beginner can play with an advanced group and still have fun. I have a $12 pickleball set and love it

Local October 10, 2023 (6:52 am)

Jesus, enough pickleball. Get a clue, folks, play hockey. Buddy rinks, not dinky doinky wastestations.

Alki resident October 10, 2023 (4:05 pm)

5 million people in our country play pickle ball. Hockey is a contact sport, feel free to play that if you’d like but 60 and 70 year olds don’t tend to play hockey around here.

LPlover October 10, 2023 (7:35 am)

I think the project should be paused. The parks department should provide a detailed description of the project. Concerned citizens should be given time to understand the project and its impacts on the park.

Teri October 19, 2023 (7:21 pm)

LPlover. Exactly. The Parks Department could put the PB court on hold. They could have a couple public hearings. They could have a SEPA performed and share the findings with all of us. The Parks Department falling short on ‘Leading.’ Let’s make this decision on the SEPA facts and data, along with public input. If they did this I would accept the decision, even if Ivwas unhappy with it..

WSB October 10, 2023 (11:09 am)

Of note pending a separate update:
In my ongoing Q&A with Parks, they mentioned this today: “The Solstice Park court resurfacing will be delayed until Spring/Summer 2024. The contractor got delayed because of supplies that did not come in time and now the weather is too wet and temperatures too cool to resurface the courts. This project will be the first one scheduled when the appropriate weather returns.” – TR

Protect the Park October 10, 2023 (3:43 pm)

But the contractor in charge of resurfacing at Lincoln somehow has a magic solution to go ahead regardless of the wet weather and cool temps?Interesting.
- WSB October 10, 2023 (4:09 pm)
  
  Asphalt surfacing for the Lincoln Park court, per Parks.

Lauren October 10, 2023 (11:12 am)

For anyone interested in the petition: https://www.change.org/p/preserve-lincoln-park-s-natural-balance?redirect=false

Quiz October 10, 2023 (11:13 am)

Is this the most West Seattle comments thread ever?

Brandon October 10, 2023 (1:23 pm)

If I were hanging flyers (I’m not), I know I’d repost wherever they got taken down, because that’s likely the area that needs a second opinion. Also, in effort to save the environment and take them down from trees, more flyers will just be printed and posted again, thanks. And ironically, the justification in taking them down because they don’t belong is the same as the person objecting to the PB court. Introspection? nahhh

Neighbor 2 October 10, 2023 (2:50 pm)

No. I have also seen the flyers and take them down because it sets a bad precedent. It’s ugly! I’ve lived here 28+ years and have never seen so many flyers tacked up to trees. Thank goodness it’s very rare that anyone does that. To your other point, I’d argue it’s ironic that the person claiming to want to preserve nature is littering the forests like that, and continuing to do so after being asked to stop.
Alki resident October 10, 2023 (4:02 pm)

The petition has false claims. If you’re not familiar with the situation, you’d likely sign it without realizing you’re being mislead by the fake information Keirsti put in it.
- Protect The Park October 10, 2023 (5:15 pm)
  
  Alki Resident… the only one spreading “fake” info is yourself. If you have a fact based opinion (and the data to back it up) you need to share it. Otherwise the narrative you keep forwarding doesn’t move the conversation. It’s petty at this point and certainly not persuading folks, as the replies to your comments here demonstrate.
  - Alki resident October 13, 2023 (5:37 pm)
    
    Try again, it’s already been proven that some over the information on the petition is false. Don’t blame me for anything, get your facts straight and learn what’s actually happening vs what Keirsti said in her petition.
    - Teri October 19, 2023 (7:04 pm)
      
      Alki Resident: Please identify the falsehoods and why they are false. Same with facts you think are grossly exaggerated.Thank you
  - Teri October 19, 2023 (6:58 pm)
    
    Well said ‘Protect The Park’! After reading your posts, I hope more people will sign the petitionAlki Resident… which petition facts are incorrect? Please be specific and provide facts to support your position. The author of the petition is highly educated in environmental issues, wildlife biology, and more. She has solid credentials.I am disturbed that a Parks Dept Lead is also on The Board for the granting non profit. This appears self serving and a conflict of interest at best. Ethics anyone?

shotinthefoot October 10, 2023 (1:29 pm)

Forgive me if I have missed something, but why can’t pickleball be played on existing tennis courts? I have been scouring these articles and comments and I honestly don’t know why existing courts can’t be shared – is it just one or both parties not being willing to share? I understand that additional lines would be painted but is that it?

Protect the Park October 10, 2023 (3:40 pm)

Exactly. And yes, that’s it….folks don’t want to share. Most of the time sharing isn’t even an issue as a daily tour of the courts currently available has shown that courts are almost always available on demand with no wait time. (yes, we have the data to prove that)There are dozen of more sensible solutions to this non-issue; none of which need involve Lincoln Park.

sgs October 10, 2023 (2:44 pm)

The link to the project description on the park’s website does not mention lighting. Has a decision about lighting/no lighting been disclosed? NO LIGHTS pls!

Protect the Park October 10, 2023 (3:35 pm)

The fact that the city “fast tracked” this, without public opinion or input, should bother us all. The fact that people are tearing down signs spreading the word (and the only documented and factual info out there) is also pretty disturbing. Luckily the pro folks are the minority here.Here again is a link to the petition, where folks can not only learn more, but get involved to stop this project. Please check it out here or on the flyers around the park.https://www.change.org/p/preserve-lincoln-park-s-natural-balance?redirect=falseThis is a project that has no demonstrated need to be built. It appears merely to accommodate a special interest group, including the Parks lead (who is a city employee and on the the board of the granting group), a group who currently has many places to play with little to no wait time. And yes, there is the data to prove that.

Alki resident October 10, 2023 (8:09 pm)

What’s more disturbing is the fact that the petition is falsely stating things that aren’t happening. I’d never sign a petition unless I knew all of the facts, and this petition is grossly exaggerated. Shame on the person who wrote it.

Protect the Park October 18, 2023 (6:23 pm)

The discussion board here. SMH. So here is the deal. We can have both. We can keep Lincoln in its current state and play pickle ball. Right now in fact. Right now I can go and enjoy the relative quiet and calm of the forest and walk right across the street for an invigorating game of pickle ball. Pickle ball on a well lit court on a playing surface that is far superior to the asphalt being proposed for Lincoln. Heck, I can even reserve a picnic spot without the lights and sound of my favorite game and then follow that up with a court I reserved for some prime pickle balling. Heck, if the courts are full and I don’t have a reservation, I can drop in at Whale Tail, SWAC, Hiawatha, High Point etc. Let’s be crystal clear, there is no demonstrated need for this project. None. In a conversation with parks and rec, they freely admit they have no data to support the building of these courts. Zero. That’s a fact. Until they can collect that data and demonstrate a need, there is no reason to rush this forward.None.