Wheat City Pickleball Hub Delay: The Wheat City Tennis and Pickleball Hub, a $3-million sports complex under construction at 1201 Pacific Avenue in Brandon, will open later than planned. Originally scheduled for October, the facility is now expected to be ready by January or February, according to Concept Homes Construction co-owner and project manager Joel Schultz.
Construction Delays
Joel Schultz said the project faced unexpected setbacks but is now moving forward again.
“We just hit some unforeseen delays, but the guys are back working hard now,” Schultz said. “The roof shows up in September — we’ll get that on and keep going. From here, we should be in pretty good shape.”
He explained that progress slowed while final design plans were completed to secure framing permits. Schultz stressed that the City of Brandon has been supportive throughout the process.
“There’s no holdup from the city,” he said. “They worked hard with us. It just took a bit longer than expected to get all the drawings completed.”
Community Response
Despite the delay, excitement around the project remains high. Downtown BIZ executive director Emmy Sanderson said the community understands the situation.
“Construction delays are not uncommon, and we’re still excited about it,” Sanderson said. “Of course, it would be nice to be open sooner, but we’d rather it be done right and work for everybody than rush to meet deadlines.”
Setbacks from Vandalism
Earlier this year, the site was hit by vandalism when equipment and trailers were set on fire. Schultz said the incidents were frustrating but did not cause major delays.
“It’s a pain, absolutely,” he said. “But nothing major stood in our way once we had the permits in place. We did report it to the police, and a fire inspector was also involved. We chalk it up to people with nothing better to do.”
Sanderson said such acts are unfortunate but do not diminish the project’s progress.
“That’s something we deal with across the whole city, not just downtown,” she said. “For anyone it happens to, it’s really unfortunate. But I’m glad it wasn’t worse, and the project can still carry on.”
Features of the Facility
The nearly 40,000-square-foot hub is being built with insulated concrete form blocks, making it strong and energy efficient.
“It will be a very well-built building,” Schultz said.
When complete, the hub will have 14 pickleball courts, some convertible to tennis courts, along with three office spaces for health professionals such as physiotherapists or chiropractors.
The second floor will include a fitness center, hot tub, sauna, cold plunge, and locker rooms. There will also be lounge areas for athletes and families.
Membership details and corporate sponsorship options will be announced in the coming months. Schultz said a grand opening event is being planned.
“A grand opening tournament and celebration, with food, giveaways, and community events, is also being planned,” Schultz said. “We want to make the launch a big community event. It’s going to be a fantastic facility, and we’re excited to finally be getting close.”
Long-Term Impact
The City of Brandon has designated the hub site as a community revitalization property, which includes a land sale for $1 and a 10-year municipal tax break.
The hub is expected to draw around 12,000 visitors in its first year and nearly 60,000 visitors annually by its 10th year.
Sanderson said the facility will play a key role in downtown renewal.
“I think it’s going to have a tremendous impact on downtown,” she said. “It’s going to create another draw for our downtown as a destination. It’ll bring people from all over the city and western Manitoba, and we’re really excited for the positive impact it’s going to have.”
News in Brief: Wheat City Pickleball Hub Delay
The $3-million Wheat City Tennis and Pickleball Hub in Brandon will open in early 2024 instead of October 2023 due to design and construction delays. Despite setbacks, including vandalism, the project is on track. The hub will feature 14 courts, fitness facilities, and is expected to attract thousands annually.
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