GEORGETOWN — The Town of Georgetown has announced a transformative $1 million donation from longtime community member Jim Bussing Sr. to support improvements to the Town’s Parks & Recreation facilities, including the development of a dedicated pickleball facility that will be owned and operated by the Town for the benefit of the community.
Pickleball continues to grow in popularity across Massachusetts and the nation, offering a sport that is easy to learn, accessible to all ages, and well suited for both casual and competitive play. The proposed facility is expected to support open play, instructional programs, youth development, senior programming, and community tournaments.
The gift will help fund the planning, design, and construction of a modern pickleball facility, expanding recreational opportunities for residents of all ages. While the donation represents a significant portion of the anticipated project cost, the Town may pursue additional funding sources to complete the project as envisioned.
Mike Donahue, Chair of Georgetown Parks & Recreation and a first-year member of the Board of Selectmen, expressed gratitude for the extraordinary contribution. “Jim Bussing Sr. has been a longstanding and valued member of our Georgetown community,” said Donahue. “His remarkable generosity demonstrates not only his commitment to recreation and healthy living, but also his belief in investing in spaces that bring neighbors together. This $1 million gift will have a lasting and meaningful impact on our residents.”
Georgetown Parks & Recreation, comprised of John Dunlevy, Aly Philbrook, Dave Schauer, and Chair Mike Donahue, looks forward to guiding the project in collaboration with municipal leadership and residents. The facility is envisioned as a welcoming and accessible space that promotes health, social connection, and intergenerational activity.
Town Administrator Orlando Pacheco also praised the contribution and its impact on the community. “This generous pledge reflects the strong spirit of community that makes Georgetown such a special place,” said Pacheco. “Mr. Bussing’s pledge will help create a space where people can stay active, meet others, and enjoy recreation for years to come.”
Bussing said his motivation for the gift is rooted in community pride. “Georgetown has always been home,” Bussing said. “I believe in supporting projects that strengthen our town and create opportunities for people to connect. I’m proud to contribute to something that will benefit families and future generations.”
The Town will work collaboratively to finalize site selection, design plans, and funding strategy, and public input will be welcomed as the project moves forward. The donation represents one of the largest private contributions dedicated to recreation in Georgetown’s history and reflects a shared commitment to enhancing quality of life for residents.
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