Cranberry Township hosts pickleball boom amid taxpayer concerns

Cranberry Township has become a hub for pickleball, attracting many players, including retirees and younger individuals. However, this popularity has led to discontent among some local residents due to noise disturbances from the courts, which operate from early morning until late evening. Jeff Gaguzis, a member of the Westminster Homeowners' Association, expressed frustration over the constant noise, describing it as disruptive. The courts are managed by the Cranberry Township Pickleball Association, which restricts access to residents unless they pay a membership fee, leading to complaints from taxpayers who feel excluded from their local park facilities. Residents like Jim Charles, who is also a township supervisor, have raised concerns about the fairness of non-residents being able to play while local taxpayers are turned away. This situation has sparked discussions about the accessibility of the courts, especially when local residents are denied entry despite the courts being empty. The association claims to operate independently of taxpayer funds, relying on its volunteer members to maintain the facility. Despite the growing interest in pickleball, there is a significant waiting list for local residents wishing to join the association. The township is aware of the noise issues and is planning to construct two public-only courts in a different park, although this solution is expected to take a year to implement. The ongoing pickleball boom in Cranberry Township highlights the tension between community enjoyment and the rights of local taxpayers. As the sport continues to grow, the township faces the challenge of balancing the needs of pickleball enthusiasts with the concerns of residents who seek peace and equitable access to public facilities.