Augusta Pickleball Proposal: A proposal to develop tennis and pickleball courts in Augusta could generate millions for the city, according to Dr. Troy Akers, co-founder of a successful pickleball facility in Columbia County. The Augusta Commission’s Public Services Committee is considering a public-private partnership for this project.
Project Overview and Purpose
The proposed facility aims to include 18 tennis courts, with 12 designed to NCAA standards, and 48 pickleball courts, half of which would be indoors.
Dr. Akers emphasized that the goal is not to overshadow existing local facilities like the Fleming Tennis Center and Newman Tennis Center. Instead, he believes revenue generated by the new facility could allow the city to reinvest in improving municipal racket courts.
Akers’ Successful Ventures
Dr. Troy Akers and his wife, Nancy, have opened several successful businesses in the Augusta area, including the first Crumbl Cookies location and Wetzel’s Pretzels food truck in Georgia.
They also run DINK’D, the first indoor facility dedicated specifically to pickleball in Martinez. Since opening seven months ago, DINK’D has welcomed 20,000 visitors, many of whom came from Richmond County.
Location and Features of the Proposed Facility
The Akers’ development group has secured 10.2 acres of land under contract near Interstate 20 and Wheeler Road, close to Doctors Hospital. This site was previously part of a larger 31-acre tract owned by former state Senator Don Cheeks.
The proposed facility will feature a 100,000-square-foot “commencement center” that can seat 2,500 people and a 15,000-square-foot gym. Informal talks about sharing the space with Augusta University and Augusta Tech have begun.
Future Expansion Plans
If the site performs well, Akers indicated that the next phase of development could include a 200-bed hotel and 500 parking spaces. These accommodations would be essential for tournament participants, generating additional revenue for Richmond County. Akers projected that the facility’s five-year economic impact on the Augusta area could exceed $175 million, creating around 875 jobs.
Community and Economic Significance
Dr. Akers, who has spent 20 years in the Augusta area, stated, “my only goal is to make this the best place possible.” The proposed tennis and pickleball facility presents an exciting opportunity for Augusta, aiming to enhance the area’s recreational offerings and drive economic growth while fostering a vibrant sports community.
News in Brief: Augusta Pickleball Proposal
Dr. Troy Akers proposed a new tennis and pickleball facility in Augusta that could boost the local economy by over $175 million and create 875 jobs. The project aims to attract major tournaments and improve existing sports facilities in the city.
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