October, 2024

Luther Burbank Courts Soon Open for Play!

Before...

Almost...

Future...

3 courts on a reclaimed condemned tennis facility.

8 dedicated courts on a new asphalt surface. Funded through a King County grant and the City of Mercer Island

Acrylic multi-colored sports surface to be applied in the Spring, 2025

Not surprisingly, it has not gone as planned or expected. Thankfully, that's all in the past. We have a facility that is built to last for generations. While court dimensions are not perfect, this was an imperfect space. It's literally taken years, but the previous crumbling 3 tennis courts at Luther Burbank have been transformed into 8 dedicated pickleball courts.

Since it really is bare asphalt that is painted, we might see balls skip and slide a bit more than usual. This spring as the temperature warms and the wet stuff from the sky is less frequent, a proper acrylic painted sports surface will be installed on top of the asphalt.

The City has posted basic park and playing rules on site. Simply, play to eleven and win by 2. Stack paddles and rotate in. Additionally, we are partnering with the City to be good cultural stewards for the courts. Take a look at our Court Usage page on this site. Basically, be inclusive, don't hog courts, and make sure everyone is having fun.

We'll be doing a few polls through the next year to see what amenities we might need to add. We will raise money, and donate them to the City. Your input (and donations) will be the guide.

And by the way, Dink On Mercer Island is now a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Any donations may be tax deductible according to the tax code. Visit the Boardroom page for a listing of our board members and financial reporting.