Myrtle Beach Pickleball Complex Approval: Plans to build a new pickleball complex near Myrtle Beach International Airport are moving forward but still need final approval from the National Park Service. PicklePort Myrtle Beach hopes to construct indoor and covered outdoor courts next to Whispering Pines Golf Course on Harrelson Boulevard.
City officials said on July 8 that they’ve worked with PicklePort for months and support the project. However, because the land was originally given to the city by the federal government, the National Park Service must approve the new recreational use.
Federal Oversight and Project Status
Assistant City Manager Brian Tucker explained that the land falls under federal guidelines. “The only remaining piece of the puzzle is approval from the National Park Service,” Brian Tucker told the City Council. “Because we were given that property by the federal government, they still have an oversight to ensure that certain standards are met, that it’s public recreation, that it’s accessible. And it’s a bit of a process and it has gone on much longer than any of us anticipated.”
The land was once part of the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, which closed in 1993. The city later received the land through the Land to Parks program, which supports public recreation.
City Support and Progress by PicklePort
City Council members agreed in January to let the city manager sign a letter of intent with PicklePort Myrtle Beach. This gave the company 180 days to inspect the land and decide if it worked for the project. During that time, the company worked on planning, engineering, and fundraising.
“Everything they need to do on their side of the equation they have done,” Brian Tucker said.
Since the review period was ending on July 14, PicklePort asked for a 60-day extension to complete the federal approval process. City Council agreed to the extension at the July 8 meeting.
Mayor Brenda Bethune did not vote on the extension. She said she stepped away from the decision because her husband is the broker for PicklePort.
Proposed Features and Community Impact
PicklePort’s plan includes not just courts but also concessions, a store for merchandise, and other entertainment areas, according to city records. City leaders say the project fits with the growing popularity of pickleball in Myrtle Beach.
The complex would offer a new, public place for recreation that meets community needs. Once federal approval is given, the city and PicklePort can move ahead with finalizing and starting construction.
News in Brief: Myrtle Beach Pickleball Complex Approval
PicklePort Myrtle Beach wants to build a pickleball complex near Myrtle Beach Airport, but needs final approval from the National Park Service. The city extended the review period by 60 days. The project includes courts, food, and entertainment. City leaders support it to meet growing demand for the sport.