The Grove in Crystal Beach adds two beach volleyball courts

It’s probably too busy on the sands of Bay Beach during the summer to set up two regulation-sized beach volleyball courts.

But just a short walk down Erie Road is the Grove, a new public space overseen by the Crystal Beach BIA, that has exactly that.

Truckloads of sand have been brought in and meticulously raked, and nets were installed on Tuesday, BIA board member Robin Bannerman told Fort Erie Radio in an interview.

A grand opening of the space will be held Saturday at 10:30 a.m.

Jam Sports, a Niagara-based athletics organization, will operate two summer leagues at the site, Monday and Thursday evenings starting in July.

“They have been amazing collaborators,” said Bannerman, adding there is still room to sign up for the action.

But it’s main purpose is to be a place for locals and visitors to stop by and enjoy.

“We’re really encouraging it as a public space,” said Bannerman.

Bannerman said the project is an example of local businesses, the BIA, and the town and local politicians, working together.

The space is owned by the nearby Crystal Beach Hill Association, but leases it to the town, said Bannerman.

The BIA has covered costs of materials and equipment, and the town was responsible for bringing in the sand, which is two and a half feet deep on the courts.

Bleachers from the former Ridgeway-Crystal Beach High School have also been brought to the site.

It’s a “proper community space,” said Bannerman.

“It’s going to be such a great spot for people of all ages,” she added.

A full summer of live music in the Grove on Saturdays from 5 to 7:30 p.m. kicks off July 5.

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