Major Renovations Set to Transform Hermosa Beach’s Kelly Courts

The recreational facility known as Kelly Courts in Hermosa Beach is set to undergo significant renovations starting on November 17, 2023. The project, which aims to enhance the area for pickleball, tennis, and basketball, is expected to take approximately 40 working days to complete, contingent on weather conditions and other potential delays. Public Works Director Joe SanClemente indicated that the renovations could be wrapped up by the end of February 2024.

Renovation Details and Upgrades

Located at 861 Valley Drive, the renovation will restore all four pickleball courts, as well as resurface the existing tennis and basketball courts. Currently, only two pickleball courts are operational; the other two were closed in 2020 due to safety concerns related to site constraints and deferred maintenance. Community Resources Director Lisa Nichols confirmed that these courts will be restored during the upcoming construction.

The renovation plan includes restriping the courts to comply with standards set by the USA Pickleball Association and the American Institute of Architects. According to city staff, the pickleball courts have not been resurfaced since their conversion from a tennis court in 2017, while the tennis court has not seen upgrades since 2016 and the basketball courts since 2018. Best practices recommend resurfacing pickleball and basketball courts approximately every five years, and tennis courts every four to eight years.

Accessibility and Community Engagement

Additional improvements will involve replacing basketball hoops, netting for both tennis and pickleball, and enhancing lighting throughout the facility. Accessibility upgrades will also be made to the adjacent ADA parking spaces to ensure a smooth path to the courts, as highlighted by SanClemente.

The courts will remain operational until the construction begins, ensuring that community members can continue to enjoy the facilities. The city plans to inform residents living within 300 feet of the project site through mailers. Current pickleball members, who have purchased a membership to reserve courts, will also be notified. Social media and the city’s website will serve as additional platforms for communication regarding the project.

Importantly, the nearby farmer’s market will continue to operate during the renovation period, and the city aims to complete the work before the start of the Little League season in the spring.

The upcoming renovations at Kelly Courts reflect Hermosa Beach’s commitment to enhancing community facilities and ensuring that recreational opportunities remain accessible and enjoyable for all residents.