BELLAIRE, Ohio — Residents questioning why newly installed asphalt is being removed from Bellaire’s pickleball courts are learning of a setback involving the elevation of the construction site.
According to recent information provided to River News, the ground where the courts are being built is below the required floodplain elevation and must be raised before construction can proceed.
The issue has reportedly prompted the removal of recently laid asphalt, creating additional work and raising concerns about the project’s overall cost.
Chaden Engineering, the firm identified as responsible for the site’s design, has been blamed for the alleged elevation error. However, who is responsible for this issue has not independently verified.
The setback could significantly increase construction expenses and potentially require changes to the project’s original scope. No revised cost estimate or list of affected amenities has been confirmed.
The development comes just weeks after reported progress on the Recreation and Entertainment Complex. In September, crews were preparing to pave eight pickleball courts following extensive drainage and site preparation work.
The project is supported by a $1.5 million Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization grant awarded to the village in December 2024. Plans include eight tournament-ready pickleball courts, four covered courts, a performance stage, concessions and restrooms, parking and walking trails.
Floodplain requirements were previously identified during the project’s environmental review. In a January update, village officials reported that additional information, including a floodplain permit, had been requested as part of the approval process.
Questions now remain about the cost of correcting the elevation, who will be responsible for those expenses and whether the full recreation complex can be completed as originally planned.
River News will continue following the project as additional information becomes available.
