Pleasanton City Council Postpones Controversial Tennis Court Construction

PLEASANTON, CA — The construction of two tennis courts at a popular Pleasanton park have been delayed pending a revised proposal, which could include a new location for the courts. The city council voted unanimously Tuesday night during a special meeting called after demolition work was abruptly halted in July following a protest from frustrated residents who live near the Pleasanton Tennis and Community Park.

“In our ongoing effort to provide an exceptional quality of life with the amenities residents want and need, the Council directed staff to gather more information and come back in the coming months with a revised proposal,” said Brian Dolan, Assistant City Manager for Pleasanton. “Staff will begin to pursue additional concepts and locations and work with the Parks and Recreation Commission, as well as other interested parties, before bringing it back to Council.”

Resident Huiling Song says the decision is great news.

“Thanks to all," Song said. “ I love Pleasanton and our officials! They made wise decision!”

Many residents say they did not know the popular area of the park was slated to become tennis courts until they saw fencing go up around the grassy area several weeks ago. Since that time, residents have rallied to protect the park, which has 10 courts on the property. Neighbors have met with city officials on numerous occasions in the last few weeks in hopes of reaching an amicable decision about the fate of the new courts.

Handmade posters created by local children continued to multiply on the fence and residents created a Facebook page to share information and updates about the project with neighbors and the Pleasanton community.

City officials confirm the temporary fencing will soon be removed.

Related:

• Children's Artwork Illustrate Opinions on Fate of Pleasanton Tennis Courts
  
• Fate of Pleasanton Park, Tabled Tennis Court Construction Topic of Upcoming Meeting
  
• City Halts Park Demolition After Pleasanton Residents Protest Against New Tennis Courts

The two new courts were part of the master plan in 1985. In June, the Pleasanton City Council voted to approve the contract and award $494,353 for the project after they held three community workshops and conducted a phone survey.

The Pleasanton Tennis and Community Park is located at 5801 Valley Ave.

Photos courtesy Autumn Johnson