Indoor Pickleball Club Planned

NEWTOWN TOWNSHIP, Pa. -- The Utah-based company currently engaged in the major nationwide expansion of its pickleball franchise locations could establish an 11-court, member-only indoor facility with a pro shop, lockers, showers and other amenities in Newtown Township by this fall.

The Picklr, based in Kaysville, wants to set up in the former Bed, Bath & Beyond store, 20 West St., in the Newtown Shopping Center here, according to a plan recently OK’d by the township planning commission. If approved next by township supervisors, Picklr could redevelop the 30,000-square-foot site and open its club in three months

Following the planning commission’s approval, Peggy Driscoll, board chairwoman, said the Picklr plan “seemed right” for the vacant property that currently has ample parking available.

“It’s a minimal impact,” she said of the plan. “I think a lot of people are going to be happy to see it. The sport if very popular.”

The shopping center where the proposed Pickleball Club seeks to locate now is anchored by Acme and Staples, and also features Chick-File-A, TD Bank and Blue Point Grill.

Earlier this year, Picklr announced an expansion of 13 franchises in 11 different states. The company said membership benefits include court reservations, open play, leagues, tournaments, clinics and guest passes.

Pickleball’s popularity in Bucks County mirrors the trend nationwide. In fact, in 2021, ’22 and ’23, the sport was named the fastest-growing sport in the United States by the Sports and Fitness Industry Association. There are an estimated 4.8 million players nationwide, the Association said.

(Will Pickleball’s popularity last? Or is it just a soon-to-fade-away trend? Send your thoughts and share this story.)

Pickleball facility proposed in Newtown Township.Photo byFrankie LopezonUnsplash