Manassas Expands with Pickleball Courts: The City of Manassas, Virginia, is set to host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Dean Park on Friday to celebrate a series of major upgrades, including the addition of eight new pickleball courts. The improvements aim to enhance recreational opportunities in the city’s largest park, which is home to various sports amenities and the Manassas Boys & Girls Club.
Expanded Facilities for Multiple Sports
In addition to the new pickleball courts, Dean Park has undergone a major transformation with the addition of:
- New basketball and futsal courts.
- Turf rectangular fields for various sports.
- New restrooms and parking facilities.
- Expansion of the skate park.
While most new features will be immediately available, the skate park remains under construction. The city cited severe safety and concrete deficiencies as reasons for demolishing the previous structure. Contractors are expected to resume work in April, with the skate park projected to reopen in June 2025.
Future Improvements Planned
City officials have also outlined additional upgrades that could be added in the future, including:
- A new diamond field with an overlaid rectangular field and lighting.
- More sports courts.
- A new playground.
Park facilities, including sports courts, will be available for reservations through the City of Manassas Parks and Recreation Department.
Dean Park’s Historical Significance
Dean Park is named after Jennie Serepta Dean, who was born enslaved in Sudley Springs, Virginia, and dedicated her life to educating African American children. She founded the Manassas Industrial School for Colored Youth in 1893.
Adjacent to the park is the Jennie Dean Memorial, located on the historic Manassas Industrial School site near Wellington Road. Efforts to enhance the memorial have already resulted in the addition of a bronze statue of Jennie Dean, with future improvements planned, including walking paths, updated signage, and an amphitheater.
News in Brief: Manassas Expands with Pickleball Courts
The City of Manassas is hosting a ribbon-cutting event at Dean Park on Friday to start significant upgrades, including eight pickleball courts, new basketball and futsal courts, turf fields, restrooms, and expanded parking. The skate park is set to reopen in June, and additional future improvements are planned.
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