By DAVID MELSON - dmelson@t-g.com
Improvements to tennis and pickleball facilities at H.V. Griffin Park are being proposed by Shelbyville Recreation Department as part of the park’s master plan.
The city is applying for a grant application for a Local Parks and Education Fund Grant from the Division of Recreation Educational Services of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation.
Pre-application for federal funding is due Feb. 15, Shelbyville City Council members were told at a study session last week.
Cost is estimated at $1.25 to $1.5 million, with the city picking up a share estimated at $625,000-$750,000. The city must initially fund the entire project and submit requests for reimbursement. The request, if granted, will be included in the city’s budget for fiscal year 2023-24, Recreation Director Mike Alsup said.
Alsup said he will consult with an engineer on a more exact grant request amount.
Plans are for eight tennis courts and six pickleball courts. The park currently contains four tennis courts and four pickleball courts.
•Two new lighted tennis courts will be considered “championship courts” with a shaded courtyard area including bleachers, Alsup said.
•Two lighted pickleball courts.
•The existing tennis courts will be resurfaced, with two containing lines for both tennis and pickleball.
•American Disabilities Act-compliant accessibility improvements planned.
Council member Marilyn Ewing asked Alsup about American Disabilities Act-compliant restrooms. Alsup said several existing restrooms are accessible, acknowledging some in the park do not meet those standards.
All current tennis courts are used year-round for recreational play, Alsup said. Shelbyville Central High School’s and Harris Middle School’s tennis teams consider H.V. Griffin Park their home court, and Community High School sometimes uses the facilities.
Ewing asked if the recreation department has any other “big-ticket” projects.
Outdated lighting is being replaced at Never Rest Park and possibly at the larger Babe Ruth field at H.V. Griffin Park, Alsup said.
