HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolutions - 2024.05.22 - 41214
AGENDA ITEM: Strategic Partnership Grant Agreement with the City of Madison Heights – Pickleball
Courts at Rosie’s Park Project
DEPARTMENT: Parks & Recreation
MEETING: Board of Commissioners
DATE: Friday, June 7, 2024 8:55 PM - Click to View Agenda
ITEM SUMMARY SHEET
COMMITTEE REPORT TO BOARD
Resolution #2024-4121
Motion to approve the grant agreement and the Oakland County Parks grant of $75,000 to the city
of Madison Heights for the Pickleball Courts at Rosie’s Park project; further, that the Oakland
County Board of Commissioners authorizes the Chair of the Board to execute the agreement on
behalf of Oakland County; further there is no budget amendment at this time.
ITEM CATEGORY SPONSORED BY
Resolution Brendan Johnson
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
Rosie's Park is a 26.5-acre park in Madison Heights with walking trails, baseball, and trees. The
proposed project is the construction of 8 pickleball courts. The location identified is an existing
basketball court that needs refurbishment. The distance from this location to the nearest residential
neighbor is 150 feet. There is a large densely wooded area to the southeast and some mature trees
surrounding the courts which may provide minimal sound adsorption. The budget also does include
additional landscaping for sound abatement. These courts are being proposed adjacent to a parking
lot for easy access.
POLICY ANALYSIS
This is a request to approve an agreement between the Oakland County Parks and Recreation
Commission, as Grantor, and the city of Madison Heights, as Grantee, to provide $75,000 to the city
in exchange for work to be done by the city for the Rosie's Park Pickleball project. Pursuant to the
agreement, the city of Madison Heights will provide $276,000 toward the total cost of the project,
which is $351,000. This project will enhance resident engagement and park experiences by
promoting physical activity with a low-impact sport that is suitable for all ages.
Question to consider: Could you remind the committee how projects like this are scored and
selected?
BUDGET AMENDMENT REQUIRED: No
Committee members can contact Michael Andrews, Policy and Fiscal Analysis Supervisor at
248.425.5572 or andrewsmb@oakgov.com or the department contact persons listed for additional
information.
CONTACT
Chris Ward, Director Parks & Recreation
ITEM REVIEW TRACKING
Aaron Snover, Board of Commissioners Created/Initiated - 5/22/2024
AGENDA DEADLINE: 06/07/2024 6:00 PM
ATTACHMENTS
1. Madison Heights Grant Agreement - Mad Hts_Pickleball
2. Exhibit A OCPR Grant Application Mad Hts_Pickleball
COMMITTEE TRACKING
2024-05-14 Legislative Affairs & Government Operations - Recommend to Board
2024-05-22 Full Board - Adopted
Motioned by: Commissioner Penny Luebs
Seconded by: Commissioner Robert Hoffman
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Spisz, Penny Luebs, Kristen Nelson, Christine Long, Robert
Hoffman, Philip Weipert, Gwen Markham, Angela Powell, Marcia Gershenson, Yolanda Smith
Charles, Charles Cavell, Brendan Johnson, Ajay Raman, Ann Erickson Gault, Linnie Taylor (16)
No: None (0)
Abstain: None (0)
Absent: Karen Joliat, Michael Gingell (2)
Passed
Page 1 of 6
COUNTY OF OAKLAND—PARK DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
MADISON HEIGHTS – ROSIE’S PARK PICKLEBALL
This Agreement is between the County of Oakland, by and through, its statutory agent, the
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission (“OCPRC”) and the City of Madison Heights,
300 West 13 Mile Rd., Madison Heights, MI 48071 (“Grantee”).
The purpose of this Agreement is to provide funding to Grantee in exchange for the work to be
performed by Grantee for the below named project. The Parties agree to the terms and
conditions set forth in this Agreement.
Project Title (“Project”): Rosie’s Park Pickleball
Project Number:
Grant Amount (“Grant Amount”): Seventy-five Thousand Dollars ($75,000)
Grantee Match Amount (“Match Amount”): Two Hundred and Seventy-six Thousand Dollars
($276,000)
Total Project Amount: Three Hundred and Fifty-one Thousand Dollars ($351,000)
Start Date: Effective Date—the date the last Party to this Agreement signs the Agreement
End Date: Three years after the date the last Party to this Agreement signs the Agreement
By signing this Agreement, the below individuals certify they are authorized to sign this
Agreement on behalf of their organizations and the Parties will fulfill the terms of this
Agreement, including any attached Exhibits.
Grantee:
Name: Melissa Marsh, City Manager Date
City of Madison Heights
County of Oakland:
Name: David T. Woodward, Chairperson Date
Oakland County Board of Commissioners
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission:
Name: Ebony Bagley, Chairperson Date
Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission
Page 2 of 6
1.Agreement Execution. Grantee is required to sign the Agreement and return it to the
contact person listed in Section 2 within sixty (60) calendar days of the date the Agreement
is issued to Grantee. If not, the OCPRC Chairperson may cancel this Agreement and the
monies allocated under this Agreement may be issued to another entity, in the County’s
sole discretion. This Agreement is not effective until both Parties sign the Agreement. The
“Effective Date” shall be the date the last Party signs the Agreement.
2.Contact Information. This Agreement shall be administered on behalf of the County by the
Planning & Resource Development Unit of the OCPRC. All notices, reports, documents,
requests, actions, or other communications required between the OCPRC and Grantee shall
be in writing and submitted to the contacts identified below. By written notice, the Parties
may designate a different contact with correlating information.
2.1. Grantee Contact
2.1.1. Organization: City of Madison Heights
2.1.2. Name/Title: Melissa Marsh, City Manager
2.1.3. Address: 300 West 13 Mile Rd., Madison Heights, MI 48071
2.1.4. Telephone Number: 248-583-0829
2.1.5. E-Mail Address: melissamarsh@madison-heights.org
2.2. OCPRC Contact
2.2.1. Name/Title: Donna Folland, Chief of Planning, Oakland County Parks
2.2.2. Address: 2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328
2.2.3. Telephone Number: 248-736-9087
2.2.4. E-Mail Address: follandd@oakgov.com
3.Project/Project Period.
3.1. Grantee shall complete the Project as set forth and described in Exhibit A within the
Project Period. Exhibit A is incorporated into this Agreement.
3.2. As defined in this Agreement, “Project Period” means the period of time beginning on
the Effective Date and ending on the End Date listed on page 1 of this Agreement.
3.3. Grantee shall complete the Project within the Project Period. Requests to extend the
Project Period must be made in writing a minimum of thirty (30) calendar days before
the Project Period ends. OCPRC may extend the Project Period, in its sole discretion,
and the extension must be codified in an amendment to this Agreement.
4.Grantee Reporting Requirements:
4.1. Grantee shall complete and submit bi-annual progress reports, including a narrative
report and summary of Project expenditures, in accordance with instructions provided
by OCPRC.
4.2. Within sixty (60) days of Project completion, Grantee shall submit final reporting
documentation, including a final reimbursement request and narrative report, and
copies of written materials and/or photographs of grant recognition signs in
accordance with the instructions provided by OCPRC.
5.Payments/Advances/Project Closeout. The OCPRC shall make payments of the Grant
Amount to Grantee as follows:
5.1. OCPRC shall pay the Grantee fifty percent (50%) of the Grant Amount listed on page
1 of this Agreement within thirty (30) calendar days of the Effective Date. The
remaining fifty percent (50%) of the Grant Amount shall be paid by Oakland County
Page 3 of 6
within thirty (30) calendar days of the date the Project is complete in accordance
with Section 4. Any cost overruns incurred to complete the Project shall be the sole
responsibility of the Grantee. To be eligible for payment, Grantee must submit a
complete payment request to OCPRC on form(s) provided by OCPRC and have
satisfied all progress reporting requirements due prior to the date of the payment
request.
5.2. Grantee shall submit documentation of all costs incurred, including the value of match
and donations made to the Project.
5.3. OCPRC reserves the right to request additional information necessary to
substantiate payments.
5.4. Grantee shall be a registered vendor with the County of Oakland to receive payments.
Registration can be accomplished by completing a vendor registration through the
Oakland County Vendor Registration link on the County Web site. All grant funds will be
paid by ACH or Check.
5.5. OCPRC shall not pay any portion of the Grant Amount to a Grantee contractor or
subcontractors. Grant Amounts shall only be paid to Grantee.
5.6. OCPRC shall hold back ten percent (10%) of the Grant Amount until Project Closeout set
forth in this Section. Final payment of the remaining ten percent (10%) of the Grant
Amount will be released upon OCPRC’s approval of Grantee’s Final Report and
satisfactory Project completion as determined by OCPRC, in its sole discretion.
5.7. A determination of Project completion, which may include a site inspection and an
audit, shall be made by OCPRC after Grantee has met any match obligations,
satisfactorily completed the activities, and provided products and deliverables
described in Exhibit A.
5.8. Grantee shall immediately refund to OCPRC any payments in excess of the costs
allowed by this Agreement.
5.9. Upon issuance of final payment from the OCPRC, Grantee releases the County, OCPRC,
and its employee and officers of all claims against the County/OCPRC arising under this
Agreement. Unless otherwise provided in this Agreement or by State law, final
payment under this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of the County’s claims
against Grantee.
6.Grantee Assurances/Responsibilities.
6.1. Grantee shall comply with all applicable local, State, and federal laws, rules, ordinances,
and regulations in the performance of this Agreement.
6.2. Grantee shall obtain all necessary permits and licenses for construction and
maintenance of the Project. Grantee shall solely determine what permits or licenses
are required for the Project, secure the needed permits or licenses, and remain in
compliance with such permits or licenses. Grantee shall retain a copy of all permits or
licenses and make them available to the County upon request.
6.3. Grantee shall have control of the Project area through fee simple title, lease, or other
recorded interest, or have written permission from the owner of the Project area to
complete Project activities.
6.4. Grantee shall abide by all State and federal threatened and endangered species
regulations when completing Project activities.
Page 4 of 6
6.5. Grantee shall not discriminate against an employee or an applicant for employment in
hiring, any terms and conditions of employment or matters related to employment
regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression,
national origin, age, genetic information, height, weight, disability, veteran status,
familial status, marital status or any other reason, that is unrelated to the person's
ability to perform the duties of a particular job or position, in accordance with
applicable federal and state laws. Grantee further agrees that any subcontract shall
contain non-discrimination provisions, which are not less stringent than this provision
and binding upon any and all subcontractors. A breach of this covenant shall be
regarded as a material breach of this Agreement.
6.6. Grantee shall require that no individual be denied access to the Project or Project
activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or
expression, national origin, age, genetic information, height, weight, disability, veteran
status, familial status, or marital status.
6.7. Grantee is solely responsible for all activities performed under this Agreement and for
the construction and maintenance of the Project. Grantee shall be the sole point of
contact regarding contractual matters for the Project, including payment of any and all
charges resulting from the Project.
6.8. Grantee shall require all contractors and subcontractors constructing or performing the
Project to comply with this Agreement.
6.9. Grantee shall ensure all contractors and subcontractors constructing and performing
the Project are qualified to perform such work.
6.10. Grantee shall be solely responsible for the installation, operation, repair, and
maintenance of the Project.
6.11. All records related to the Project must be maintained for a minimum of seven (7)
years after the final payment has been issued to Grantee by the County.
7.Liability.
7.1. The County/OCPRC is not liable or required to install, operate, repair, maintain, or
contribute to the installation, operation, repair, or maintenance of the Project and any
associated Project activities.
7.2. Grantee shall defend any Claim brought against either Party that involves the Project or
associated Project activities or that involves title, ownership, or other specific rights of
real property controlled by Grantee and relates to the Project.
7.3. Grantee is responsible for all Claims arising under or in any manner related to the
Agreement, the activities authorized by the Agreement, or the use and occupancy of
the Project.
7.4. As used in this Agreement, “Claims” mean any alleged losses, claims, complaints,
demands for relief or damages, lawsuits, causes of action, proceedings, judgments,
deficiencies, liabilities, penalties, litigation, costs, and expenses, including, but not
limited to, reimbursement for reasonable attorney fees, witness fees, court costs,
investigation expenses, litigation expenses, amounts paid in settlement, and/or other
amounts or liabilities of any kind which are incurred by or asserted against a Party, or
for which a Party may become legally and/or contractually obligated to pay or defend
against, whether direct, indirect or consequential, whether based upon any alleged
Page 5 of 6
violation of the federal or the state constitution, any federal or state statute, rule,
regulation, or any alleged violation of federal or state common law, whether
commenced or threatened.
7.5. Performance of this Agreement is a governmental function. This Agreement does not,
and is not intended to, impair, divest, delegate, or contravene any constitutional,
statutory, and/or other legal right, privilege, power, obligation, duty, or immunity of
the Parties. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as a waiver of governmental
immunity.
8.Insurance. The Grantee shall acquire and maintain insurance or a program of self-
insurance, which Grantee deems necessary, to protect it from liability related to
construction and/or operation of the Project. The County/OCPRC shall not obtain any
insurance or provide any self-insurance for construction and/or operation of the Project.
9.Audit and Access to Records. OCPRC reserves the right to conduct programmatic and
financial audits of the Project and may withhold payment until the audit is satisfactorily
completed. Grantee shall maintain all pertinent records and evidence pertaining to this
Agreement, including grant and any required matching funds, in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles and other procedures specified by OCPRC. OCPRC or any
of its duly authorized representatives must have access, upon reasonable notice, to such
books, records, documents, and other evidence for the purpose of inspection, audit, and
copying. Grantee shall provide proper facilities for such access and inspection. All records
must be maintained for a minimum of seven (7) years after the final payment has been
issued to Grantee by OCPRC.
10.Assignability. Grantee shall not assign or transfer any interest in this Agreement without
prior written authorization of OCPRC.
11.Changes. Any changes to this Agreement requested by Grantee shall be made in writing
and sent to the contact listed in Section 2 of this Agreement. OCPRC may approve or
deny such change, in its sole discretion. Any changes related to the grant amount or any
other financial component of this Agreement will require an amendment to be executed
in the same manner as this Agreement. Any changes not related to the grant amount or
any other financial component of this Agreement, including but not limited to
modifications to Project scope or Project Period extensions, can be made by amendment
at the discretion of and signed by the OCPRC Chairperson.
12.Termination.
12.1. Failure by Grantee to comply with any provision of this Agreement shall be a
material breach of this Agreement. Upon breach of the Agreement by Grantee,
OCPRC may, in addition to any other remedy provided by law:
12.1.1. Terminate this Agreement;
12.1.2. Withhold and/or cancel future payments to Grantee on any or all current grant
projects until the violation is resolved to the satisfaction of OCPRC;
12.1.3. Withhold action on all pending and future grant applications submitted by
Grantee; or
12.1.4. Require specific performance of the Agreement.
12.2.Upon the date of termination, all outstanding reports and documents are due to
OCPRC and after the termination date OCPRC will no longer be liable to pay or reimburse
Grantee any outstanding Grant Amounts.
13.Governing Laws/Consent to Jurisdiction and Venue. This Agreement shall be governed,
interpreted, and enforced by the laws of the State of Michigan, excluding Michigan’s conflict of
Page 6 of 6
law principles. Except as otherwise required by law or court rule, any action, complaint, lawsuit,
or other legal or equitable proceeding brought to enforce, interpret, or decide any Claim, as
defined herein, arising under or related to this Agreement shall be brought in the Sixth Judicial
Circuit Court of the State of Michigan, the 50th District of the State of Michigan, or the United
States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, Southern Division, as dictated by the
applicable jurisdiction of the court. Except as otherwise required by law or court rule, venue is
proper in the courts set forth above. The choice of forum set forth above shall not be deemed
to preclude the enforcement of any judgment obtained in such forum or taking action under
this Agreement to enforce such judgment in any appropriate jurisdiction.
14.Entire Contract. This Agreement represents the entire agreement and understanding
between the Parties. This Agreement supersedes all other prior oral or written
understandings, communications, agreements, or contracts between the Parties regarding
the subject matter of this Agreement. The language of this Contract shall be construed as a
whole according to its fair meaning and not construed strictly for or against any Party.
OCPR Grant Program Application
For the 2023 Oakland County Parks and Recreation Park Improvement and Trailways Grant Program, $650,000
is available for trail and park improvement projects. This program is designed to assist local Oakland County
communities with planning, preliminary engineering/design, and construction costs directly related to park
improvement and trail projects located in Oakland County. For full program guidelines refer to the 2023
Community Grant Program Guidelines found on the Oakland County Parks web site.
We are not using Laserfiche this year but changing to this fillable PDF application. Please submit attachments
and supporting documents along with this application as ONE PDF document if possible.
A. Applicant Information
1. Project Title:
2. Oakland County City, Village or Township Name:
3. Census Tract:
4. Name of Primary Grant Contact:
Address:
Primary Contact Phone:
Primary Contact E-Mail Address:
5. Please list any project partners:
6. For which type of funding are you applying (please check one):
Pre-development grants minimum request $5,000, maximum request $25,000 (design, engineering,
planning, etc.) 25% Match
Development grants minimum request $5,000, maximum request $100,000. 50% Match
EXHIBIT A
B. Financial Information
Grant Amount Requested:
Match Amount:
25% minimum match for pre-development projects
50% match for development projects.
Certain communities may be eligible to have the match requirement waived – if your community is struggling
to provide a match, please reach out to OCPR grants planning staff
Match Source(s):
Projected Budget (if more lines are needed, please attach as additional document):
Scope Item Quantity Total Amount
Total project budget:
C. Grant Application Requirements
1.Indicate how and where this project is addressed in relevant community planning documents, which may
include: 5-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan, Capital Improvement Plan, Park Master Plan, Community
Master Plan, Complete Streets Plan, Trailway Master Plan, Pathway Plan, etc. Provide links to relevant
online planning documents or add relevant pages to application PDF document. (100 word maximum)
EXHIBIT A
2. Proposed Project Dates
Anticipated Start Date:
Anticipated End Date:
3. Select the type of site control the applicant has over the site where the project is to be completed:
Fee simple
Less-than-fee-simple (explain): (text field)
Lease
License
Easement
Other (explain):
4. Final Report & Reimbursement
The OCPR Trails and Park Improvements grant program is a reimbursement program. If awarded a grant, the
community will have an opportunity to request reimbursement on a quarterly basis. A final report will need
to be submitted and approved by OCPR grant management staff prior to the release of the final 20% of grant
funds.
Please check here to acknowledge that this is a reimbursement grant and that a final report will be
required to release the final 20% of grant funds.
D. Project Description
1. Describe the physical location of the proposed project and ownership of the property. (250 words max)
2. Describe the project design and why it was chosen. (250 words max)
EXHIBIT A
3. Provide a relevant history/background information (including any environmental concerns). (250 words max)
4. Describe the community need for the project. (250 words max)
5. Project Alignment with most recent OCPR Community-Wide Needs Assessment.
Please select all categories in which your proposed project falls:
Beaches
Multi-use trails
Canoe & kayak launch sites
Picnicking areas and pavilions
Playgrounds
Sledding Hills
Farmers Markets
Waterparks and Waterslides
Boating and fishing areas
Splash pads and spray parks
Outdoor amphitheaters
Camping areas
Mountain-biking trails
Tennis courts
Baseball and softball diamonds
Basketball courts
Disc golf
Archery range
Hunting areas
Off-road vehicle areas
Soccer and cricket fields
Outdoor equestrian facilities/trails
Pickleball courts
Other
EXHIBIT A
6. Does the project positively impact equity and justice and/or provide parks and recreation services that feel
safe and welcoming to everyone? If so, please summarize here. (250 word max)
7. Does the project consider sustainable design/construction practices and help build community resilience
and adaptation to climate change? If so, please summarize here. (250 word max)
8. Does the project increase access to spaces and experiences that promote physical, mental, and social health
for all? If so, please summarize here. (250 word max)
9. Has any public engagement been done around this project yet? If so please summarize here.
EXHIBIT A
10. Describe how the project will be managed and maintained long-term, including any equipment or staffing
needs and how they will be addressed.
11. Describe how the project will meet or exceed ADA guidelines. Describe any Universal Design principles that
will be incorporated into the project.
12. Select whether or not the park or facility has any required entrance fees – annual, daily, non-resident, etc.
No fees for park use
Non-resident annual or daily fee
Annual or daily fee for residents and non-residents
Other (explain):
13. Select the ways in which people can access the site:
Automobile only
Automobile
Bicycle on-street
Dedicated bike lane
Sidewalk
Nearby bus stop (within ¼ mile)
EXHIBIT A
E.Attachments
If possible please use the “Combine Files into one PDF” tool to combine your application materials into one PDF
document. If you don’t have the ability to do so, individual files will still be accepted. Email all attachments to
Kate Layton at laytonk@oakgov.com. Put your community name in the subject line of the email.
Required Attachments:
1.Project location map
2.Site plan or site map
3.Optional letters of support
4.Optional Other Materials
a) Design drawings/specifications
b) Photographs with captions that indicate the relevant content of the photo
Submission
Completed applications should be e-mailed to Kate Layton at laytonk@oakgov.com.
You will receive a confirmation e-mail within 48 hours indicating that we received your application. If your
application file size is too large to e-mail, reach out to Kate or Donna for file-sharing options.
Applications should be submitted by April 21 at 5:00 p.m.
Contact Information:
Donna Folland
Supervisor – Planning and Resource Development
(248)736-9087
follandd@oakgov.com
Kate Layton
Community Liaison
laytonk@oakgov.com
EXHIBIT A
Preliminary Site Plan
SCALE:
Part of the SW 1 4
of Section 13
T. 1 North, R. 11 East
City of Madison Heights,
Oakland County, Michigan
Know what's below
Call before you dig.
R
City of Madison Heights
Rosie's Park -
Pickleball Courts
SEAL
March 6, 2024
PROJECT
CLIENT
PROJECT LOCATION
SHEET
DATE ISSUED/REVISED
DRAWN BY:
DESIGNED BY:
APPROVED BY:
DATE:
sheet no.
O011
NFE JOB NO.
00-00-00 REVISED PER
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civil Engineers
Land Surveyors
Land Planners
ENGINEERS
NOWAK & FRAUS ENGINEERS
46777 Woodward Ave.
Pontiac, MI 48342-5032
Tel. (248) 332-7931
Fax. (248) 332-8257
WWW.nfe-ENGR.COM
1 of 1
1" = 20'
01020 10 20 30
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R. Johnson
B. Brickel
PAVING LEGEND
LEGEND
B. Brickel
EXHIBIT A
Oakland County Parks Pickleball Considerations
Research summary - May 22, 2023
1
Contents
Oakland County Parks Pickleball Research Summary ............................................................................... 2
Recommendation ...................................................................................................................................... 2
Summary of findings ................................................................................................................................. 2
Pickleball court information .................................................................................................................. 2
Pickleball noise ...................................................................................................................................... 2
Local pickleball organization feedback ..................................................................................................... 3
Courts .................................................................................................................................................... 3
Operation and Management ................................................................................................................ 3
Player Demographics ............................................................................................................................ 4
Feedback on pickleball noise ................................................................................................................ 5
Ambassador Park Recommendations ....................................................................................................... 7
Alternative Ambassador Park Proposal ................................................................................................ 7
Rosie’s Park Recommendations ................................................................................................................ 8
Civic Center Park Recommendations ........................................................................................................ 9
EXHIBIT A
Oakland County Parks Pickleball Considerations
Research summary - May 22, 2023
2
Oakland County Parks Pickleball Research Summary
Pickleball locations in southeast Michigan were identified using a variety of search methods. Those
locations were pinned on an interactive map, displaying 42 unique locations representing 26
organizations. Oakland County Parks (OCP) contacted these organizations and was able to collect
information about their courts and programs from over a dozen organizations, as well as information
about the sport overall from a variety of online sources.
Recommendation
After evaluating the information provided by local area organizations, information provided by USA
Pickleball and other sources, OCP does not recommend the installation of outdoor pickleball courts within
residential areas as the noise from the game has a negative impact on quality-of-life for neighbors within
500 feet.
Summary of findings
Pickleball court information
Pickleball courts, which are 20’x40’, are slightly more than a quarter the size of tennis courts, which are
38’x78’.
Many tennis courts are being converted into pickleball courts, which allows for more simultaneous users
as many existing tennis footprints can accommodate four pickleball courts to each tennis court. Outdoor
courts should be oriented so that players will be facing north and south to avoid looking directly into the
sun in the mornings and evenings.
Pickleball noise
The impact of a ball hitting a pickleball paddle has a frequency reported between 1,000 – 2,000 Hz and an
average of 65-70 dB. These figures vary depending on the environment, external noise, humidity and
other factors.
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EXHIBIT A
Oakland County Parks Pickleball Considerations
Research summary - May 22, 2023
3
1
5
8
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6
There are many sound abatement options available, both natural and manufactured, with varying claims
of efficacy, but the three major categories found were:
• Natural barriers- hedge rows or tree rows
o Noise attenuation provided by hedges reports a reduction of 2.7 dB for hedgerows with a
porosity less than 4.6%
• Walls – varying materials and construction complexity
o AcoustiGuard is a manufactured wall that claims a reduction of around 40 dB
• Curtains - manufactured sound-barrier to be hung on existing fence
o ACOUSTIBLOK claims 11 dB reduction which results in more than 50% reduction in
perceived sound
o FENCE SCREEN claims 32 dBA sound reduction and an 8-10 year life expectancy
Local pickleball organization feedback
Courts
Slightly more than a quarter of all respondents reported having courts that are specific to pickleball, while
most have a combination of both pickleball and tennis courts. The majority of respondents have two, four
or six courts per park. Only one respondent each reported having one, five or eight courts.
Type of Courts Number of Courts per Park
Pickleball specific courts
Tennis courts with pickleball lines
Some of both
When asked what, if anything, organizations have learned since opening their pickleball courts or what
they would have done differently, the following themes were identified:
• A desire to install more courts to help meet demand
• Ensuring that courts are enclosed and that wind and sound barriers are in place
• Experienced players were identified as potentially difficult as they often make inexperienced and
beginner players feel unwelcome and have high expectations and demands for the courts
Operation and Management
Courts were reported to be utilized frequently or almost always by over 75% of respondents, with a few
reporting about half-time usage. None of the organizations who responded noted accepting reservations
for individuals, while some allow for league reservations. Most courts are open from sunrise to sunset,
while a couple are open until after dark, and a few have specific hours. Very few organizations have
pickleball equipment available.
EXHIBIT A
Oakland County Parks Pickleball Considerations
Research summary - May 22, 2023
4
Almost
always
Frequent About
half time
Court utilization frequency Reservations accepted
Equipment available Hours of operation
Player Demographics
The demographic information shown here is what was reported from the local organizations who
responded to our pickleball inquiries. USA Pickleball also reported demographic findings in 2022 that
support these findings and can be found on their 2022 Fact Sheet. Of the local respondents to our
inquiry, 100% reported that their courts are most utilized by adults ages 55-74, with most reporting users
35-54 years of age the second most frequent users. Children are widely reported to utilize the courts the
least. According to USA Pickleball, the top age group below represented core players who play 8 or more
times annually, while the second age group below largely represented casual players, playing 1-7 times a
year.
Age groups utilizing courts most frequently
Yes, it’s free
Yes, for rent
No
Other: some
programs, yes;
$2 per set
Yes
No
Sometimes
Only leagues
Other: registration required;
leagues and classes, all other
open play; in the process of
implementing leagues
1. 55-74 years
2. 35-54 years
3. 75 years and over
4. 24-34 years
5. Teenagers 13-19 years
6. Under 12 years
Sunrise to sunset
Open until
10-11 pm
Scheduled
times
EXHIBIT A
Oakland County Parks Pickleball Considerations
Research summary - May 22, 2023
5
Asian or Asian Indian (2)
Black or African American (3)
Native American or Alaska Native (0)
White (8)
Native Hawaiian/other Pacific Islander (0)
Hispanic or Latino/a/x (0)
Other (6) includes: unknown; good mix, at least 60% white; assume mostly white; white and
Asian; Middle Eastern, Black, white, Asian or Asian Indian
Respondents were asked to report the race and/or ethnicity of their primary pickleball users and largely
reported users being white, or selecting white along with other races. Of all provided options, no
organizations reported users who were Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, other Pacific
Islander or Hispanic/Latino/a/x.
Race/ethnicity of pickleball players reported by local organizations
When asked if there were any barriers, either observed or reported, that prevented people from playing
pickleball, the most selected response was that the courts do not have enough open availability to meet
demand, with the second most selected response being a feeling of being unwelcome or unsafe on the
courts. The other given options were infrequently or not identified as being barriers by any organizations.
Barriers to play, reported or observed
Feedback on pickleball noise
Reports of noise complaints varied among respondents based on location of courts and surrounding
neighborhoods. West Bloomfield reported that in a 40-acre park, pickleball “ruins” any quiet areas.
Ann Arbor operates courts at 4 parks and report receiving noise complaints often, stating “We do get
complaints from noise complaints regarding pickleball from various community members.
Sunrise to sunset
Open until
10-11pm
Specific
times
Person does not own pickleball equipment
Person does not have transportation to the courts
Courts do not have enough open availability to meet demand
Courts are not accessible to people of all abilities
Person does not know the rules of play
Person does not feel welcome/safe on the courts
Other: includes: wind screen falls frequently
EXHIBIT A
Oakland County Parks Pickleball Considerations
Research summary - May 22, 2023
6
Leslie Park is adjacent to the Leslie Park Golf Course, and you can hear the pickleball games going on from
quite a distance on the course.” Below is a map of that park with court locations and proximity to
neighboring residential areas.
Beverly Hills, Orion Township and Troy
reported receiving “some” noise
complaints from neighboring
residents. Below is an image of a park
in Beverly Hills, the location of the
pickleball/tennis courts and the
distance to the adjacent
neighborhoods.
1,214’ to residential
Leslie Park Golf Course
6 pickleball courts
Leslie Park (and Leslie Park Golf Course)
300’
Beverly Park (Beverly Hills)
170’ to residential
1,214’
to a few residential
Natural area- no residents
Na
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ITC Community Sports Park - Novi
Several municipalities reported never receiving noise
complaints, however all reported that their courts did not have
neighboring residences. Some of their feedback is below, along
with an arial image (right) of one of the parks referenced.
“They [the pickleball courts] are at the community center and
not near any homes.” -Dearborn
“Our courts are located in one of our largest parks and does not
neighbor any homes or businesses.” -Ypsilanti
“indoor courts- [noise abatement] not needed”
-Springfield Township
“Both sets of courts are set back in our parks where there is
plenty of tree cover which limits sound from spreading too far.”
-Novi
EXHIBIT A
Oakland County Parks Pickleball Considerations
Research summary - May 22, 2023
7
Ambassador Park Recommendations
Due to the extremely close proximity to neighbors on both the east and west park boundaries, OCP does
not recommend the installation of outdoor pickleball courts at Ambassador Park.
Ambassador Park is a seven-acre park on the south side of 13 Mile Rd., between John R. and Dequindre.
There is a residential neighborhood of single-family homes on the west side of the park with homes as
close as 120 feet from the existing tennis courts. There is also a residential apartment complex on the
east side of the park with units as close as 140 feet from the courts.
Ambassador Park tennis courts and proximity to neighbors
Many of the local organizations who host pickleball courts in neighborhoods reported receiving noise
complaints from their residential neighbors, all of which were located in parks where the closest
neighbors were at least 300 feet away, more than double the distance from the neighbors at Ambassador
Park.
The City of Madison Heights does have noise ordinances that game play may violate. If pickleball courts
were to be installed, sound testing from the park boundary would have to occur to ensure compliance.
There are sound abatement options that are available which should reduce the perceived sound to the
neighbors, though none would ensure compliance and all would block sight lines to the courts, creating
enclosed spaces where monitoring would need to be closely considered.
Alternative Ambassador Park Proposal
As an alternative to the tennis court conversion to pickleball, OCP proposes a destination gathering hub
that will include spaces and activities that appeal to seniors, children and people of all ages and abilities.
Unique features draw people in, activate the area and encourage intergenerational engagement.
Approximately 120’
Approximately 140’
Unique shade / pavilion Built in game areas/ ping pong Natural play elements
EXHIBIT A
Oakland County Parks Pickleball Considerations
Research summary - May 22, 2023
8
Rosie’s Park Recommendations
Rosie’s Park is a 26.5 acre park in Madison Heights with walking trails, baseball diamonds, basketball
courts and many mature trees, including a heavily wooded border on the southeast edge of the park. The
entire northern portion of the park shares its border with residential neighborhoods while the southern
portion of the park is neighbored by two school properties.
Oakland County Parks has identified three potential locations where pickleball courts could be installed,
with the understanding that the noise from the game could be a disruption to the residential and
educational neighbors. Professional sound testing should be administered to ensure compliance with
applicable Madison Heights noise ordinances before any decisions for installation are made. See maps
below for proposed locations and distance to bordering neighbors.
Northern portion- Rosie’s Park Southern portion- Rosie’s Park
A. This northernmost location is within 150 feet of the nearest residences but is separated by woods
and has many surrounding trees. This location is adjacent to the existing playground and
accessible by path to the northern parking lot. This location would require some tree removal and
would not conform to the recommended court orientation of north to south.
B. The existing basketball courts could accommodate six, or perhaps even eight, pickleball courts.
The distance from this location to the nearest residential neighbors is 150 feet and has little
vegetation between the two to serve as a sound buffer. There is, however, a large, densely
wooded area to the southeast and some mature trees surrounding the courts which may provide
minimal sound adsorption, however OCP would recommend alternative sound abatement in this
location. These courts are adjacent to a parking lot.
C. This southernmost proposed location is surrounded by schools within 190 feet, which may
require more stringent noise compliance, but almost 600 feet from residential neighbors. This
location is not easily accessible from the park.
150’ to residents
300’ to residents 480’ to residents
150’ 460’ to residents
B
A
C
EXHIBIT A
Oakland County Parks Pickleball Considerations
Research summary - May 22, 2023
9
Civic Center Park Recommendations
Civic Center Park is a 34.4 acre park on 13 Mile Rd. in Madison Heights and is the largest of the city’s
parks. Civic Center Park shares a border with municipal buildings such as police, fire, library and the city
offices. The entire western edge of the park borders Lamphere High School, and the remaining neighbors
are classified as commercial, with the nearest residents at least 950 feet away and separated by other
buildings, trees and open space. Oakland County Parks has identified two potential locations for pickleball
court installation.
Civic Center Park- proposed pickleball locations
Oakland County Parks recognizes that noise from pickleball play could be a disruption to the residential,
commercial, municipal and educational neighbors. Professional sound testing should be administered to
ensure compliance with applicable Madison Heights noise ordinances before any decisions for installation
are made.
City offices
Police
Library
Dorsey College
230’
330’ to
commercial
550’ to commercial
230’
10
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A
B
A
B
A. This proposed location is on the walking
trail but is not adjacent to the parking
lot and would need a connector route. It
is situated between two sloped areas
(see map with contour lines and
proposed walking path below). The
nearest neighbors are commercial, with
Lamphere High School and municipal
buildings over 600 feet away.
B. This location is easily accessed from the
parking lot and is near the playground,
basketball courts and other park
amenities. It is about 230 feet from both
Lamphere High School and the police
station.
Both locations provide very little vegetation
for sound absorption.
Topographical map of Civic Center Park
EXHIBIT A