Foley Opens Public Pickleball Courts: On June 2, 2025, the City of Foley celebrated the grand opening of 12 brand-new public pickleball courts near the Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermens Market. Within minutes of the 6 p.m. opening, all courts were full, showing just how popular pickleball has become in the community.
Public Pickleball Courts Now Open and Free to Use
The newly launched pickleball facility features 12 lighted courts that are open to the public and available for use at no cost. The courts will be available daily until 10 p.m., providing locals with ample time to play, whether early in the morning or late at night.
“Today is a great day for Foley with lighted courts that are free to the public, and we really are looking forward to this being open,” said Mayor Ralph Hellmich.
Years of Planning Behind the Courts
The idea for the new pickleball complex was in the works for years. City leaders and staff worked closely with engineers and contractors to make sure the courts fit well next to the Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermens Market and nearby housing.
“The planning that went behind this is incredible,” Hellmich said. “We wanted it to fit into this acreage here. Councilman (Charles) Ebert was very passionate about maintaining as much open space. We have housing units nearby. We have open space. We’re going to continue to improve all this area, but we believe it all blends together beautifully with the Farmers Market, which is one of the best in our area.”
Funded Without Local Tax Dollars
The pickleball courts were built using impact fees—money paid by developers building in Foley. That means local taxpayers didn’t foot the bill.
“This is money that is created by the growth, and it’s used to support the needs of our quality of life for our current residents,” said Mayor Hellmich. “This did not come out of any tax dollars that residents who live here in Foley pay. It’s impact fee money, so it’s something that is really an incredible resource for us.”
A Big Win for Pickleball Players
Foley’s leisure services director David Thompson shared his excitement during the opening. He believes the new pickleball courts will be a major benefit for players of all ages.
“Today is an exciting day for our community,” Thompson said. “We’re officially opening our brand new pickleball complex and our very first beach volleyball courts, and I have to say, they look amazing. These projects are big wins for our residents, and the best part is they’re open to the public every day until 10 p.m. So whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, we’ve got you covered with lighted courts and no excuses to get out and play.”
“These new facilities aren’t just about sports, they’re about community and about giving people a place to come, move, connect and compete,” Thompson added.
Support from Public Works and Local Contractors
The Foley Public Works Department helped connect the courts to Stabler Drive and built a new parking lot. Contractors like Sawgrass Engineering, WAS Design, Harris Contracting, Asphalt Services, and Smith Electric were also key in building the pickleball facility.
Plans for more improvements in the area include restroom buildings and passive park spaces that will make the complex even more user-friendly in the future.
More Parks and Courts to Come
Foley’s mayor said this is just the beginning of more community-centered developments. City leaders are already planning additional parks, remodeling older ones, and bringing in more recreational options.
“As we bring these projects forward, you’re going to see signs of future park infrastructure, remodeling and things of that nature around town,” Hellmich said. “We’re just going to continue working. We have a plan going forward. We’re going to keep implementing these items. There are great things to come.”
Pickleball’s Rise in Foley Signals a Bright Future
The immediate popularity of the new pickleball courts shows how fast the sport is growing in Foley. With more people looking for fun, healthy, and social ways to stay active, pickleball is becoming a top choice. Thanks to smart planning and funding from city growth, Foley now offers one of the best free pickleball setups in the region.
News in Brief: Foley Opens Public Pickleball Courts
Foley, Alabama opened 12 lighted public pickleball courts near the Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermens Market on June 2, 2025. The courts are free to use and quickly filled with players. Funded by developer impact fees, the project highlights the city’s commitment to active, accessible recreation.
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