Downtown Louisville Pickleball Court Project: Omni Hotels & Resorts has announced plans to build a $12 million pickleball and entertainment complex in downtown Louisville. The project would rise on Muhammad Ali Boulevard between 2nd and 3rd streets, just south of the Omni Louisville Hotel.
Facility Details
According to plans filed with the city, the 14,000-square-foot venue would include four indoor and four outdoor pickleball courts, a restaurant, a bar, indoor entertainment space, and outdoor yard-game areas. The site would also feature flexible event spaces for gatherings.
“The venue will be open to the public and also serve as a valued amenity and additional event space supporting the Omni Louisville Hotel and convention activities,” Omni said in its filing.
Site and Demolition
The site is currently a vacant grass lot, but it also contains the 19th-century Odd Fellows building. In 2023, the Kentucky Court of Appeals allowed the building to be demolished, ending a years-long debate over its historical landmark status. Removing the building would be the first step before moving on to geotechnical and environmental studies, architectural design, and eventually, construction.
Community Impact
Nicole Kubitza, director of sales and marketing for Omni Louisville, explained the company’s vision for the space. “…we have always envisioned something on this site that would activate the area for both hotel guests and the local community,” Kubitza said in an email to Louisville Business First.
Timeline and Future Plans
Even though plans have been filed, construction could be years away. Groundbreaking may not happen for more than five years as studies and design work are completed.
Significance
If built, the facility could provide a new hub for both visitors and residents, expanding Louisville’s growing pickleball scene while adding entertainment and event space near the hotel and convention center.
News in Brief: Downtown Louisville Pickleball Court Project
Omni Hotels & Resorts plans to spend $12 million on a pickleball and entertainment facility in downtown Louisville. The venue will feature indoor and outdoor courts, dining, and event spaces. Construction could take more than five years to begin, as the Odd Fellows building must be demolished before work starts.