Pickleball Courts at Bailey Road Park: Bailey Road Park in Cornelius will receive an additional $611,000 in grant funding to develop a new court complex. The funding comes from several tennis organizations, including the Lake Norman Tennis Association (LNTA) and the U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) Southern and North Carolina chapters.
Funding Breakdown and Support
On Monday night, the Cornelius town board heard from representatives of three tennis organizations who expressed excitement about the new facility.
“The sport of tennis can be an important part of improving communities, schools, the health of individuals, and the quality of life for all,” wrote Ted Reese, USTA Southern President, and Matt Olson, USTA Southern Executive Director.
“As members of the tennis family, we know how this sport can make a difference in people’s lives. We are happy to partner with the Bailey Road Park Court Complex to help achieve this goal in Cornelius.” – (Ted Reese)
They are partnering with the Bailey Road Park Court Complex to help improve the community. The LNTA awarded the town $100,000, while USTA Southern provided $500,000 through the Enhanced Build It Forward Grant, which includes a $10,000 match from USTA North Carolina.
Additionally, USTA North Carolina contributed $11,000 through its Raise the Net Grant, making it the largest grant ever provided by the organization.
Development Plans and Timeline
The town approved the master plan for the court complex on September 16, 2019. The plan includes 10 lighted pickleball courts, 12 lighted tennis courts, and 109 parking spaces.
Funding for the project was authorized in August 2023. After the initial construction costs for Phase I, the town had $202,690 remaining from the allocated funds. Including the new donations, the total available for construction is now $813,690.
Phase I began in October 2024, focusing on the pickleball courts, part of the tennis courts, and over 70 parking spaces. The additional funding will allow for expedited construction of the tennis courts, enabling them to open sooner and reducing overall project costs.
Community Impact
“These generous funds are a game changer for what we are able to achieve in Phase I construction,” said Troy Fitzsimmons, Cornelius Parks and Recreation Director.
He praised LNTA leaders Amy Brandon and JD Weber for their efforts in securing funding. Phase I is expected to be completed by August.
The start date for Phase II, which will include more parking, a new restroom building, and shaded seating structures, has not yet been determined.
News in Brief: Pickleball Courts at Bailey Road Park
Cornelius is set to receive $611,000 in grants for the Bailey Road Park court complex. The project will include 10 pickleball courts and 12 tennis courts, aiming to improve community health and recreation. Phase I is scheduled for completion by August.
ALSO READ: Park City’s New Pickleball Courts at Utah Film Studio: Will They Be Ready for Next Winter?