The city of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., has entered a partnership to build a brand new venue featuring 43 professional courts and the world’s first dedicated pickleball stadium.
As reported by local ABC affiliate WPLG, The Fort is expected to break ground near Fort Lauderdale International Airport within Snyder Park. It is expected to include a 4,000-square-foot event space, 14 weatherproof courts, live music, and food and beverage service. Other amenities include a pro shop, locker rooms and a post-play recovery center.
The state-of-the-art facility will be designed to serve both casual and competitive players through open and reserved play, clinics, leagues and tournaments. Non-players will be able to simply enjoy watching touring pros train up close, according to a press release from The Fort.
Fort Lauderdale mayor Dean Trantalis expressed his enthusiasm with the public-private partnership to build the new facility.
“This collaboration showcases the incredible possibilities that arise when the public and private sectors work together for the benefit of our community, creating more than 100 jobs and making a significant economic impact on our city; aligning perfectly with Fort Lauderdale’s commitment to be a world-class live-work-play city.”
The grand opening for The Fort is expected sometime in 2024.