CITY OF POMONA
COUNCIL REPORT
April 6, 2026
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: Anita D. Scott, City Manager
Submitted By: Mark J. Gluba, Assistant City Manager
SUBJECT: AUTHORIZE STAFF TO SUBMIT A GRANT APPLICATION TO USA PICKLEBALL GRANT PROGRAM RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council authorize City staff to pursue a USA Pickleball funding opportunity to convert one (1) of the two Washington Park tennis courts into three (3) pickleball courts.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
In April 2024, the City resurfaced and restriped four existing tennis courts at Palomares Park to create a hybrid sports court for the use of up to 16 pickleball courts or up to four tennis courts. Since opening, the Palomares Park pickleball courts have become a highly utilized park amenity and have increased positive use of the park. Building on the success of Palomares Park, staff would like to submit a grant application to USA Pickleball to convert one (1) of the two Washington Park tennis courts to create (3) pickleball courts with center fencing.
SB1439/GOVERNMENT CODE §84308 APPLICABILITY:
☐ When this box is checked, it indicates the agenda item is subject to the Levine Act SB1439 requirements. Councilmembers are reminded to check their campaign contributions and determine whether they have received a campaign contribution of $500 or more that would require disclosure and/or recusal from discussing or acting on this agenda item. Campaign contributions of $500 or more made 1) by any person or entity who is identified in the agenda report as the applicant or proposer or 2) on behalf of the applicant or participant, including a parent, subsidiary or otherwise related business entity, or 3) by any person who has a financial interest in the agenda item requires a councilmember to comply with SB1439.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact in submitting a grant application. There is no grant match requirement.
DISCUSSION:
USA Pickleball is the official National Governing Body of the sport and is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving pickleball’s integrity and driving its growth nationwide. The organization sanctions top tournaments, certifies equipment and facilities, trains referees, and provides educational resources. Guided by its Board of Directors and national staff, USA Pickleball delivers the vision and infrastructure to expand the game while offering access to events, programs, and tools that enhance the experience on and off the court. USA Pickleball offers grant programs designed to expand access, enhance pickleball courts, and bring the sport to more players nationwide. The Play It Forward Grant awards funds to communities that are installing or converting pickleball courts to increase court access and development of the sport.
After a thorough review of the grant guidelines, eligibility, and criteria, staff confirmed the City's eligibility to apply. Staff would like to apply for grant funding to convert one (1) of the two Washington Park tennis courts to create three (3) pickleball courts with center fencing. The second court will remain a tennis court.
Approval of this action will allow staff to submit a grant application to USA Pickleball’s Play It Forward Grant Program, which will begin accepting applications on March 27, 2026. The maximum request is $25,000 and there is no grant match. Award announcements are expected in June 2026, and if awarded, the project must be completed and open for play within 12 months of receiving funds.
COUNCIL PRIORITIES & GOALS:
This item supports the 2021-2022 City Council Priority 1: Fiscal and Operational Responsibility – Goal C: Obtain additional grant funding and other revenues to help achieve City goals and Priority 4: Safe and Clean Community – Goal M: Improve safety and cleanliness at parks and public spaces.
Prepared by:
_____________________________
Monica Belloso
Management Analyst
Authorization to Submit a USA Pickleball Grant Application for Washington Park Court Resurfacing