By Kellie Houx
KHoux@cherryroad.com

GLADSTONE — Gladstone has added six pickleball courts, an expanding parking lot and restroom facility on the site of the former tennis courts at 2099 NE 72nd St.

The courts opened recently and the players have turned out in droves to test out the new courts.

To officially dedicate the courts, Gladstone Mayor Les Smith and the Gladstone city council members celebrated the grand opening July 16 with a ribbon cutting.

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports to hit the courts. This paddle sport created for all ages and skill levels combines many elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong.

The sport continues to thrive in Gladstone, with dozens of players gathering daily at the Gladstone Community Center, Meadowbrook Park and now the 72nd Street courts.

The new courts are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Smith said the 72nd Street Pickleball Courts are opening the door for even more play in Gladstone.

Smith also thanked Evergy for partnering with the city and lease the site at no cost. Lessons, leagues and possible tournaments are most likely in the future of these courts, he said.

“There will be grow in activity and community,” he said. “Gladstone is such a great space. We invest in meaningful spaces, support wellness and recreation and find new ways to bring people together in that sense of community.”