Fort Lauderdale Pickleball Court Controversy: A plan in Fort Lauderdale to take down beach basketball courts and build pickleball courts instead has started strong opposition. Many in the community say the change erases years of culture and history tied to the courts.
Part of a Larger Redevelopment
City leaders explained that the basketball courts are included in the $3 billion Bahia Mar redevelopment project. The plan features a luxury hotel, condominiums, and an upgraded marina.
As part of the agreement with the Bahia Mar Community Development District, the basketball courts will be removed. They will be replaced with pickleball courts, as well as new fitness equipment, picnic tables, and grills.
Concerns From Basketball Players
Local players say the move forces out a long-standing community, especially minority groups who gather there.
“It’s a community here with all walks of life, all nationalities, etcetera; it’s about having fun playing basketball and socializing,” said Shawn Hall, organizer of the group Fort Lauderdale Beach Ballers.
The Beach Ballers argue the courts stand for much more than a game.
“Desegregation of the beach was an important historical event in Fort Lauderdale and this court represents that whole period of time,” said Leo Lorenz, another organizer with the group.
City Commissioner Responds
Fort Lauderdale City Commissioner Steven Glassman said the city changed its plan after hearing concerns. He explained new basketball courts will be built 100 to 200 yards south of the current site, though the exact location is not set.
“There are still people to this day that are basically entering the conversation and just claiming racism. I find that unfortunate and I find that sad; it’s sad that that is the tactic,” Commissioner Steven Glassman said.
Glassman added that about 35 condominiums have already been sold with the promise of nearby pickleball courts, and that commitment cannot change. The condos start at $2 million.
“My goal is to see everyone come together and enjoy this change,” Commissioner Steven Glassman said.
Pickleball’s Rise and Pushback
Commissioner Steven Glassman said pickleball was chosen because it is the fastest-growing sport in the nation and easier for most people to play. Fort Lauderdale has also been called a hub for the sport and will host the Pickleball World Cup next month.
But the Beach Ballers remain against the plan. The group has collected more than 8,000 online signatures asking the city to keep the courts in place.
“We believe that they just don’t like the demographics that’s out here on the beach,” said Leo Lorenz.
What Comes Next
The next Fort Lauderdale City Commission meeting is set for October 7. Officials expect to confirm the location of the new basketball courts and share the full construction schedule for the Bahia Mar project at that time.
News in Brief: Fort Lauderdale Pickleball Court Controversy
Fort Lauderdale plans to replace beach basketball courts with pickleball as part of the $3 billion Bahia Mar redevelopment. The move sparked backlash from players who say the courts hold cultural value. City officials promise new courts nearby. The final location may be set at the October 7 meeting.