HOLLISTER, Mo. – The city of Hollister is revamping Tiger Park with several additions, including much more parking and four long-awaited new pickleball courts.

The city will begin the first phase of renovations this summer by demolishing the vacant Hollister Elementary School and putting a large parking lot in its place. 

Hollister Deputy City Administrator Denise Olmstead told The Heartlander the existing parking lot can accommodate only eight vehicles, while the new lot will allow 40 to 60 new spaces for visitors. 

The second wave of renovations includes installing four new pickleball courts in place of the minimally used tennis court, along with updating and repainting the basketball court. The pickleball courts and new parking space should be available for public use by late summer or early fall, Olmstead says.

“Pickleball is very popular and is up and coming nationwide,” Olmstead said. “There’s a great interest for it in our community. It is multigenerational.”

Local resident and pickleball player Sandy Leech says she is excited for the new courts, and especially for the increased availability they will bring for other players. 

“There’s not enough court space here,” Leech said. “There are more players than can fit onto the courts, and pickleball is a lifetime sport. Adults, young people and old people can all play together and have a fun time.

“When people are moving to an area, one of the top things they look for is recreation, parks and outdoors activities. I think it’s going to be a great asset to Hollister, and kudos to them for knowing and recognizing that and investing in the community.”

The next phase of improvements will see the addition of walking trails, a restroom facility, pavilion, benches, picnic tables and increased lighting. Those upgrades are expected to be completed sometime over the next two years, Olmstead said. 

“We’re always looking at ways to increase the green space and utilize it for what residents are looking for,” she said.