Email from Adam McGuinness regarding Tennis Courts

Proposal for Repair and Resurfacing of View Royal Tennis Courts

Dear Mayor and Council / Parks & Recreation Department,

I am writing as a resident of View Royal to request that the Town invest in the repair and resurfacing of the community tennis courts. These courts are a valuable public resource, but they are currently in need of significant attention in order to remain safe, accessible, and enjoyable for all residents.

Current Condition of the Courts

Over the past several years, the surface of the tennis courts has developed numerous cracks that extend across the playing areas. These cracks not only interfere with the quality of play but also pose a potential risk for injuries, particularly to children, seniors, and new players who may be less steady on their feet. In addition, the existing net has deteriorated and is no longer in good condition, further diminishing the experience for residents who use the courts regularly.

Estimated Costs for Repairs

Based on standard rates in British Columbia for municipal court resurfacing projects, the following cost estimates are reasonable for restoring the facility:

Surface repair and resurfacing (crack filling, leveling, resurfacing, line painting): $20,000 – $25,000
Replacement of net and posts with durable, professional-grade equipment: $1,500 – $2,000
Total Estimated Project Cost: $22,000 – $27,000

These figures represent typical costs for outdoor court refurbishment projects of this size and would ensure that the courts remain in good condition for another 10–12 years before major resurfacing is needed again.

Long-Term Value of the Investment

Although the required investment may appear significant, the cost is relatively modest compared to other community infrastructure projects. Tennis courts, once resurfaced, require minimal ongoing maintenance, making them a cost-effective recreational amenity. By repairing the courts now, the Town can:

Prevent further surface degradation, which would only increase repair costs in the future.
Extend the usable lifespan of the facility by more than a decade.
Provide a safe and reliable recreational option for residents year-round.

Community Benefits

The benefits of this project extend well beyond the courts themselves. Tennis courts play an important role in promoting health, community connection, and civic pride. Specifically, this project would:

Promote Health and Active Living Tennis is an affordable and accessible sport for people of all ages. It supports cardiovascular health, coordination, and physical fitness. By maintaining high-quality courts, the Town encourages residents to stay active and reduces barriers to healthy living.
Support Youth Development Safe and functional courts provide young people with a constructive outlet where they can develop skills, teamwork, and discipline. Many parents prefer local outdoor facilities for their children, and the current condition of the courts is discouraging.
Foster Community Connection Public courts are a place where residents can meet, play, and socialize. Whether it is two neighbours playing a casual match or families spending time together, the courts provide opportunities for connection that strengthen the fabric of our community.
Enhance Town Image and Pride Well-maintained recreational facilities reflect positively on the Town as a whole. Visitors and prospective residents see them as an indicator of civic care and quality of life. Courts in poor condition, by contrast, send the opposite message.
Ensure Accessibility for Seniors and Families Cracked, uneven surfaces present a safety risk. By resurfacing the courts and installing a new net, the Town demonstrates its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that residents of all ages and abilities can enjoy the facilities.

Comparisons and Precedents

Neighbouring municipalities such as Victoria, Esquimalt, and Saanich have all invested in resurfacing and upgrading their tennis facilities within the past several years. These upgrades have been well-received and have led to increased usage and greater satisfaction among residents. For View Royal, undertaking a similar project would keep the Town on par with surrounding communities and demonstrate a continued commitment to recreation.

Community Support and Engagement

As a resident, I am confident that many others in our community share this concern. I would be glad to assist in gathering feedback, signatures, or letters of support from other residents who use the courts. A collective request from the community will further demonstrate the importance of this investment.

Conclusion

The repair and resurfacing of the View Royal tennis courts represents a relatively small but highly impactful investment in our community. At an estimated cost of $22,000 – $27,000, the Town can restore a valued recreational facility, extend its lifespan for more than a decade, and deliver meaningful benefits to residents in terms of health, safety, and quality of life.

I respectfully urge Council to prioritize this project in upcoming budget discussions. Thank you for your consideration of this request. I would be pleased to provide additional input or help coordinate community involvement in support of this initiative.

Sincerely,

Adam McGuinness