Columbia to Invest $100K in Field Park Upgrades

New pickleball courts, lighting, landscaping, and playground equipment planned for local park

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Columbia Parks and Recreation is scheduled to hold a public meeting on Wednesday to discuss proposed $100,000 in improvements to Field Park, including the addition of two new pickleball courts, updates to lighting and landscaping, new sidewalks, and new playground equipment. The project would be funded through the city's 2021 park sales tax, with Columbia College agreeing to contribute $40,000 towards the pickleball courts.

Why it matters

The planned upgrades to Field Park aim to enhance recreational opportunities and community amenities in Columbia, with the pickleball courts in particular responding to growing demand for the sport. The public meeting allows residents to provide input on the proposed improvements.

The details

The $100,000 project for Field Park would include the installation of two new pickleball courts, with Columbia College agreeing to contribute $40,000 towards that portion of the upgrades. Additional improvements would involve updates to lighting and landscaping, the addition of new sidewalks, and the replacement of playground equipment.

  • The public meeting is scheduled for 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at the Armory, located at 701 E. Ash St.

The players

Columbia Parks and Recreation

The city department responsible for managing and improving public parks and recreational facilities in Columbia, Missouri.

Columbia College

A private liberal arts college located in Columbia, Missouri that has agreed to contribute $40,000 towards the new pickleball courts at Field Park.

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What’s next

Following the public meeting, Columbia Parks and Recreation will review feedback and determine whether to proceed with the proposed $100,000 improvement project for Field Park.

The takeaway

The planned upgrades to Field Park demonstrate Columbia's commitment to investing in community recreational amenities and responding to resident interests, such as the growing popularity of pickleball.