The La Center City Council has authorized a contract to install perimeter fencing at the upcoming pickleball courts in Heritage Park, marking the last major approval needed before construction moves toward an expected June 2026 completion. According to reporting by The Reflector, the vote occurred during the council’s meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 25.

City records show the fencing contract was the final component requiring council action for the multi‑court project. Other elements of the build — including surfacing, layout, and site preparation — have previously been funded or approved through earlier phases of the city’s parks planning process. With the contract now in place, the project is set to move into its next stage this spring.

Heritage Park serves residents across north Clark County and parts of Cowlitz County, particularly those in Woodland, La Center, and smaller nearby communities that rely on regional parks for recreation. Pickleball has seen rapid growth throughout Southwest Washington in recent years, and local officials have cited escalating demand for dedicated space. Once completed, the courts are expected to increase access to year‑round outdoor recreation for youth, seniors, and local league players.

According to city staff discussions referenced in public meeting materials, the timeline for completion remains tied to weather‑dependent construction windows. However, with procurement now finalized, La Center officials have continued to highlight June 2026 as the target for opening the facility.

Why this matters

Parks and recreation infrastructure in the I‑5 corridor north of Vancouver has struggled to keep pace with population growth and changing community needs. For residents in communities like La Center, Kalama, and Woodland — many of whom travel for sports programming or lack nearby facilities — the expansion of public recreation space represents a significant quality‑of‑life improvement.

The fencing approval moves La Center’s project from planning into execution, reflecting a broader regional trend toward investing in low‑cost, high‑use amenities that can be shared across jurisdictions. As completion approaches, the courts are expected to contribute to broader recreational connectivity throughout Southwest Washington.

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