Friends of Ottumwa’s Parks continues to make steady progress to- ward construction of the new public pickleball facility at Troeger Park, with several major milestones now completed and fundraising efforts entering their next phase.
Earlier this month, Friends of Ottumwa’s Parks and the City of Ottumwa formally approved and signed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining each organization’s responsibilities in the development of the project. The agreement establishes the frame- work for continued collaboration as construction moves closer.
The first commitment identified in the Memorandum of Understanding has already been completed. The City of Ottumwa recently demolished the former tennis courts at
Troeger Park, providing a significant in-kind contribution toward the project and preparing the site for future construction.
Friends of Ottumwa’s Parks also recognizes the assistance provided by the City’s Engineering Department, which recently reviewed the proposed court layout and provided valuable feedback as final plans continue to be refined.
The proposed nine-court facility will be located at Troeger Park on Church Street, directly across from the Cobblestone Hotel and Wissota Chophouse, creating a new recreational destination that is well positioned to serve local residents while supporting regional tournaments and visitors.
The organization has also assembled an experienced construction team. Local professionals responsible for the asphalt paving and perimeter fencing have pledged their support and enthusiasm for the project and are prepared to begin work once fundraising is complete.
Phase I of the project, scheduled for 2026, includes construction of the courts, fencing, nets, surfacing, and all infrastructure necessary to open the facility for public play.
Phase II, planned for 2027, will focus on the amenities surrounding the courts, including benches, seating areas, accessible walkways, landscaping, and native wildflower plantings.
To date, Friends of Ottumwa’s Parks has raised approximately $162,000, representing 74% of the $218,500 needed to complete Phase I. The increase from the original estimate reflects approximately 6.6% in higher construction costs over the past year.
Funding secured to date has come through grants from the Ottumwa Regional Legacy Foundation, generous contributions from local pickleball enthusiasts, small businesses, and other community supporters. One additional grant application remains pending, while the organization reaches out to major employers, businesses, financial institutions, and community organizations throughout the region to help close the remaining fundraising gap.
“Every donation and every partnership has moved this project forward,” said David Niño, Board President of Friends of Ottumwa’s Parks. “The City’s support, our volunteers, our contractors, our donors, and the enthusiasm of the local pickleball community have positioned us well. We are now focused on raising the remaining funds needed to begin construction and open the courts as soon as possible.”
Friends of Ottumwa’s Parks also welcomed Allen Yates to the project team as a volunteer. Yates brings extensive professional construction experience along with firsthand knowledge of the sport as an active pickleball player. His involvement further strengthens the organization’s ability to deliver a quality public facility.
Community members and organizations interested in supporting the project may learn more or make a tax-deductible contribution by visiting: www.friendsofottumwasparks.com/donate
