Thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors—and the partnership between MTCF and the Thiensville‑Mequon Pickleball Association (TMPA)—nearly $100,000 has been raised to build eight dedicated outdoor pickleball courts at the Range Line Community Center. This includes a $10,000 grant awarded by MTCF to support the project. With fundraising now complete, we are pleased to share an update on the project’s progress and the broader improvements planned for the Range Line campus.
A Broader Vision for the Campus
Since the pickleball project began, the Mequon‑Thiensville School District (MTSD) Recreation Department has expanded the scope into a larger campus improvement effort called Gather & Play: Renewing Mequon-Thiensville’s Recreation (Gather & Play). This initiative includes upgraded recreation amenities, expanded gathering spaces, and an inclusive playground designed for families across Mequon and Thiensville.
Federal Grant Review & Strong Funding Position
In Spring 2025, MTSD applied for a $375,000 Land and Water Conservation Fund grant (Grant) through the Wisconsin DNR and received a tentative award for the full amount. The application is now undergoing final review by the National Park Service. As part of the grant requirements, no construction may begin until federal approval is officially granted, which MTSD anticipates in August or September 2026.
With your financial support of the pickleball courts, the Gather & Play improvements are being generously supported by a $300,000 commitment via the MTSD Recreation Department’s Fund 80. This, together with the Grant, will fully fund phase one of the project.
While the current Gather & Play plans are anticipated to be fully funded and moving forward, the Recreation Department is still evaluating expansion and additional enhancements that could be incorporated during construction. These items are not part of the existing budget, so MTSD is seeking community support to fund them. These additions will not delay the project.
Phase One Improvements
Preliminary site plans for Phase One include:
- Eight outdoor pickleball courts,
- A new inclusive playground,
- Picnic and gathering areas,
- Updates to two baseball fields,
- Improvements to four flag football fields, and
- Modernized play spaces for multiple age groups.
A potential Phase Two—still in early discussion—may include a concession stand with storage, restrooms, and a basketball court. No timeline has been set for this phase.
Permitting & Construction Timeline
MTSD has applied for construction permits with the City of Mequon and expects approval by early August. Once federal approval is received, Phase One construction—including the pickleball courts—can begin. Construction is expected to take 8–10 weeks, with anticipated completion in October or November 2026.