Introduction:
As we approach the exciting National Pickleball Day on August 8th, we are thrilled to share our story in parks and recreation engineering. With over 17 years of dedicated service and a remarkable portfolio of more than 120 successful projects, we have emerged as a leading force in the industry. In this blog post, we are excited to take you on a deeper journey into the wide range of services we offer, with a special emphasis on our passion for designing exceptional pickleball courts.
Our Beginnings in Parks and Recreation Engineering
At Sunrise Engineering, our roots in parks and recreation engineering trace back to the early 2000s. Before that, we had already undertaken various park projects, including concept planning and design work for several clients. However, it was our involvement in the design and construction of the impressive 60-acre W&M Butterfield Park in Herriman, Utah that truly ignited our passion for this field. Over the years, we continued to undertake significant projects, including the renowned Caliente Meadow Valley Wash Shared Use Trail, Rail City Linear Park, Rose Park Neighborhood Park, Dixon Park Softball Complex, and Super Park Community Park, which further solidified our position in the industry.
Proud Highlights: Our Favorite Parks and Recreation Projects
We take immense pride in our signature projects, which have challenged us to deliver excellence in parks and recreation engineering. The Herriman W&M Butterfield Park, a monumental endeavor that spanned several years, remains a standout achievement for us. Additionally, the St. George Little Valley Pickleball Complex, Salt Lake 11th Avenue Park Tennis Complex, and Washington Boilers Park have been pivotal in showcasing our dedication to creating exceptional recreational spaces for communities.
Pickleball Courts: A Passion and Expertise
Our journey into designing pickleball courts began with a project for Southern Utah University’s tennis complex reconstruction. As we explored innovative options, post-tensioned concrete courts caught our attention. The subsequent collaboration with St. George City marked a defining moment as we embarked on the creation of the Little Valley Pickleball Complex. Since then, our team has honed its expertise, and we find significant gratification in having completed an impressive total of 33 pickleball courts in various projects.
Designing the Perfect Pickleball Courts: Key Considerations
The heart of any pickleball court project lies in understanding the owner’s vision and the intended use of the facility. Whether it’s fostering competitive play, promoting leisurely enjoyment, or facilitating classes and league matches, we tailor our designs to meet specific needs. Additionally, we place significant emphasis on the social aspect of the sport, ensuring that our facilities encourage interaction and enjoyment among players.
Distinguishing Features of Pickleball Court Design
In designing pickleball courts, we adhere to the stringent standards set by the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA). Our expertise extends to tennis and basketball courts, where we meticulously follow the respective governing body’s guidelines. For pickleball courts, materials, drainage, lighting, and accessibility are all critical components that contribute to a safe, durable, and compliant facility.
Optimal Location and Amenities for Unmatched Experiences
When selecting the ideal location for pickleball courts within a park or recreational area, we consider various factors. We aim to provide convenient and easy access to other park amenities, such as pavilions, restrooms, and drinking fountains. Additionally, we are mindful of minimizing noise disturbances for neighboring areas, particularly when courts are located near residential zones. Furthermore, we integrate carefully designed amenities, such as spectator seating, shade structures, and storage areas, to enhance the overall user experience and promote community engagement.
Inclusivity and Accessibility: Everyone’s Game
At Sunrise, we are committed to inclusivity and ensuring that our facilities accommodate individuals with disabilities. We follow ADA guidelines to provide opportunities for everyone to participate in the exciting sport of pickleball.
Longevity and Durability: Building for the Future
To optimize the longevity and durability of pickleball courts, our focus begins with an appropriate initial design tailored to the site’s conditions and the owner’s performance requirements. We partner with skilled contractors experienced in constructing tight-tolerance large post-tensioned slabs, ensuring that our courts stand the test of time. Regular resurfacing and maintenance further contribute to their extended lifespan.
Celebrating Recognition: Our Award-Winning Projects
Our dedication to excellence has earned us prestigious awards and recognition. Among these honors are the Utah Recreation and Parks Association (URPA) Innovation of the Year Award and the APWA Southern Utah Branch Public Works Project of the Year for our Little Valley Pickleball Complex project. Additionally, our commitment to conservation earned us the Commitment to Conservation award from URPA for the Washington City Boilers Park in 2022.
Conclusion:
At Sunrise Engineering, our passion for parks and recreation engineering drives us to create extraordinary spaces that inspire communities and promote healthy, active lifestyles. As we celebrate National Pickleball Day, we extend our expertise and friendly approach to designing top-notch pickleball courts for enthusiasts across the nation. Whether it’s creating innovative spaces for competitive play or facilitating enjoyable leisure activities, we take pride in our role in transforming recreational dreams into reality. Join us on this journey as we continue to shape the future of parks and recreation engineering, one project at a time.