New Pickleball Courts Coming: Pickleball is quickly becoming the hottest trend in sports, spurring the development of new facilities across the nation. With its rapid rise in popularity, communities are investing in dedicated pickleball courts and comprehensive sports complexes to meet the growing demand. This trend highlights the sport’s broad appeal and its ability to bring together players of all ages for healthy competition and recreation.
Freehold Township is set to welcome exciting new attractions to its renowned Freehold Raceway Mall. The Macerich Co., the mall’s owner, has secured approval from the township Planning Board to introduce two new tenants: Dave & Buster’s and Freehold Athletic Club. These additions will transform the lower level of the former Sears store, which has been vacant since its closure in February 2020.
Pickleball Courts Coming to Freehold Raceway Mall
Freehold Raceway Mall is set to become a hub for pickleball enthusiasts with the introduction of the Freehold Athletic Club. The club plans to remodel its space, adding five dedicated pickleball courts along with a lounge and pro shop. This new facility will also offer cryotherapy, massage therapy, an on-site chiropractor, personal training, and physical therapy, creating a comprehensive fitness experience.
“We appreciate their support and partnership as the addition of Dave & Buster’s and Freehold Athletic Club will further enhance the mall’s vibrant shop, dine, and play experience for our guests and community.”-(frank)
The mall’s owner, The Macerich Co., received approval from the township Planning Board to bring both the Freehold Athletic Club and Dave & Buster’s to the mall. These new additions will occupy the lower level of the former Sears store, which has been vacant since February 2020, offering a blend of athletic, entertainment, and fitness amenities to the community.
Entertainment and Athletic Venue
Dave & Buster’s, a popular arcade, sports bar, and restaurant, alongside Freehold Athletic Club, will occupy this newly repurposed space. “We are thrilled with Freehold Township Planning Board’s unanimous decision,” stated Frank Lucia, the mall’s general manager. He emphasized the community’s support and the enhanced shopping, dining, and entertainment experience these new tenants will bring.
Expansive New Spaces
The plans detail Dave & Buster’s taking over 40,158 square feet of the Sears space, while Freehold Athletic Club will cover 30,720 square feet. This development follows the Planning Board’s previous denial of a similar request for Round1 Bowling & Amusement in 2020, which was resolved by a zoning rule change in 2021. This change has allowed for more diverse and exciting tenants to join the Jersey Shore’s largest shopping center.
Dave & Buster’s will feature a state-of-the-art arcade, a bar, and a restaurant with 137 tables and 545 seats. Patrons can expect a full-service menu and drink offerings. Meanwhile, Freehold Athletic Club will offer a comprehensive fitness experience, complete with five pickleball courts, a lounge, a pro shop, cryotherapy, massage therapy, personal training, and physical therapy. Additional amenities include a sauna, juice bar, virtual golf bays, stretching and yoga rooms, and spaces for group classes.
| Tenant | Square Footage | Features | Location |
| Dave & Buster’s | 40,158 sq ft | Arcade, sports bar, restaurant, bar and restaurant with 137 tables and 545 seats, state-of-the-art arcade | Lower level of former Sears store |
| Freehold Athletic Club | 30,720 sq ft | Fitness machines, five pickleball courts, lounge, pro shop, cryotherapy, massage therapy, chiropractor, personal training, physical therapy, sauna, juice bar, virtual golf bays, stretching, yoga room, group classes | Lower level of former Sears store |
| Primark and Bob’s Stores | Not specified | Retail store | Upper level of former Sears store |
A New Chapter for Freehold Raceway Mall
This development marks a significant win for Freehold Raceway Mall, revitalizing the space left by Sears and providing new, diverse options for entertainment and fitness. As Dave & Buster’s and Freehold Athletic Club prepare to open their doors, they are set to bring a fresh, dynamic energy to the mall, benefiting the community and enhancing the overall mall experience.
News in Brief: New Pickleball Courts Coming to Freehold Raceway Mall
Freehold Raceway Mall is set to transform with the addition of two new tenants: Dave & Buster’s and Freehold Athletic Club. Approved by the township Planning Board, these new attractions will revitalize the lower level of the former Sears store, closed since 2020. The Freehold Athletic Club will feature five pickleball courts, along with extensive fitness amenities like cryotherapy and massage therapy. Dave & Buster’s will offer a vibrant arcade, sports bar, and restaurant experience. This development marks a significant win for the mall, enhancing its appeal and providing diverse entertainment and fitness options for the community.
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