Willow Oaks’ Pickleball Expansion Project: Willow Oaks Country Club in South Richmond has announced plans to build four new pickleball courts as part of a major $11 million expansion project. The private club filed development plans last month with the city and says the upgrades will improve the experience for current members and attract new ones.
The club, located at 6228 Forest Hill Avenue, currently has no dedicated pickleball courts. These new courts will be built inside its indoor tennis facility, which will also gain a fifth tennis court during the expansion. General Manager Chris Welles confirmed that the planned upgrades were guided by feedback from club members.
New Courts for a Growing Sport
Pickleball has seen a sharp rise in popularity in recent years. Willow Oaks Country Club is responding to that trend by including four dedicated pickleball courts in its upgrade plan. These courts will be added to the club’s indoor tennis building, which currently does not have any pickleball facilities.
Chris Welles, general manager of the club, said, “It’s working on an improved experience for existing members and attracting new members.” The idea for new courts came from members themselves, who were asked what they’d like to see improved at the club.
“I think it’ll really change how our members use and enjoy our club.” – (Welles)
Part of a Bigger Plan
The pickleball courts are just one part of a larger project that will cost an estimated $11 million. The project includes updates to restaurants, a new bar, a golf practice center, and social areas. The club hired Chambers, a design firm from Baltimore, to help with the planning.
“Big on their list were more social spaces.” – (Welles)
“We call it social collisions,” Chris Welles said, referring to the increased gathering spaces members requested. Pickleball was one of the top items on their wish list.
Growing Membership and Facilities
Willow Oaks Country Club is already operating at near capacity, with about 1,000 member families and a waiting list of 40 families. As of 2023, the club had $11.1 million in revenue, up from $10 million in 2022 and $8.4 million in 2019.
“We are basically at capacity.” – (Welles)
Chris Welles said, “Although things are really good, our industry cycles.” He explained that the upgrades are a way to stay prepared for future changes in demand.
News in Brief: Willow Oaks’ Pickleball Expansion Project
Willow Oaks Country Club in Richmond is building four indoor pickleball courts as part of an $11 million expansion. The courts will be added to the tennis facility. Members requested the change due to the sport’s growing popularity. The project is expected to enhance member experience and attract new families.
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