Pickleball Complex in Vestavia Hills: Patrick Denney, a Vestavia Hills resident and real estate developer, has been named a finalist for the 2024 Vestavia Hills Newsmaker of the Year. Denney made headlines this year after reaching a deal to purchase the shopping center containing the long-vacant Sprouts grocery store on U.S. 31. He plans to transform the space into an indoor pickleball complex, meeting the growing demand for pickleball facilities in the area.
In September, Denney, the principal owner of Altera-AIP Vestavia, secured a financial incentive deal with the Vestavia Hills City Council to proceed with the project.
The city, eager to fill the vacant space and create a dedicated space for pickleball, offered Denney an initial investment of $300,000 and agreed to reinstate a property and sales tax rebate agreement that was in place before the Sprouts store closed in 2018.
Turning Vacant Space Into a Community Hub
The project will convert the 28,000-square-foot space into a vibrant sports facility. The new indoor pickleball complex is expected to feature multiple courts, a pro shop, and a restaurant, providing a much-needed venue for both casual players and competitive athletes.
The city’s investment in the project highlights the growing popularity of pickleball, which has seen a surge in players of all ages. Vestavia Hills is eager to meet this demand by offering a space where local residents can play, practice, and compete.
City Support and Investment
The financial support from the city was key to making this project a reality. The city of Vestavia Hills had been looking for ways to redevelop the shopping center space and fill the vacancy left by Sprouts. The $300,000 investment and the reinstitution of the tax rebates will help offset some of the costs of the project.
“Vestavia Hills is excited to see this development move forward,”. “The new pickleball facility will provide a space for local players to enjoy the sport while also boosting the community.”(a city spokesperson)
Looking Ahead
As construction progresses, the indoor pickleball complex is expected to open in mid-February or early March of 2025. The project is seen as a major win for the city, fulfilling the growing interest in pickleball while also breathing new life into a once-empty retail space.
Denney’s project is just one example of how local leaders are responding to the rising popularity of pickleball and other recreational activities. It will likely inspire similar developments in other cities as the sport continues to grow.
News in Brief: Pickleball Complex in Vestavia Hills
Patrick Denney, a finalist for 2024 Vestavia Hills Newsmaker of the Year, plans to transform a vacant shopping center into an indoor pickleball complex. The city supported the project with a $300,000 investment and tax rebates. The facility, expected to open in early 2025, will serve local players and boost community activity.
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