Macomb County Pickleball Facility Boom: Pickleball is booming in Macomb County, bringing new life to vacant buildings and old sports facilities. Metro Pickleball, a 16-court facility in Clinton Township, will open on September 27 in a former Kmart building. The facility will serve both public and private players, offering recreation for all skill levels.
New and Upgraded Facilities
Clinton Township Supervisor Paul Gieleghem called the Kmart building’s re-use “exciting” and “a model for future re-development.” Metro Pickleball is near completion and has applied for its certificate of occupancy. The township also offers courts at the Civic Center on Romeo Plank and Canal roads.
Clintondale Community Schools unveiled the six-court PicklePlex, funded with a $45,000 donation from The C-Club, a nonprofit alumni group. School board president Felicia Kaminski said,
“This is something that will bring our community together and our students together.”
The courts are available for open play 8 a.m.–7 p.m. on weekdays.
Fraser City Hall rebuilt tennis courts to create three pickleball and two tennis courts at Garfield and 14 Mile roads. Mayor Michael Lesich said,
“The tennis courts had reached the end of their useful life,”
adding the new courts are
“well received by pickleball fans.”
Sterling Heights Plans Indoor Pickleball Center
Sterling Heights will create a $10 million indoor pickleball complex at 35630 Van Dyke Avenue, north of 15 Mile Road, in a long-vacant building. The project includes nine pickleball courts, six tournament-ready table tennis courts, community spaces, locker rooms, restrooms, a nursing mothers’ room, and a zen meditation room.
Sterling Heights Parks and Recreation Director Kyle Langlois said,
“Officials say the courts appeal to a broad range of residents of all ages without expensive upkeep or equipment.”
Drop-in play will be free, with modest fees for programs, leagues, tournaments, or rentals. Opening is planned for July 2026.
Mayor Michael Taylor highlighted the facility’s importance:
“This adaptive use of an existing facility reflects that commitment. It will not only enhance wellness and play but also strengthen our sense of community by providing a place where people come together.”
A community feedback session will be held from 4:30–6 p.m. on Tuesday, September 30, at the Sterling Heights Community Center. Residents can learn more about the project and provide input on amenities.
Growth of Pickleball in Macomb County
Pickleball was the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. in 2024, with 19.8 million participants, a 45.8% increase from 2023. Many schools and municipalities are converting underused tennis courts to pickleball courts, reflecting the sport’s “explosive” growth and growing popularity among residents of all ages.
News in Brief: Macomb County Pickleball Facility Boom
Macomb County is embracing pickleball, converting vacant buildings and old courts into new facilities. Metro Pickleball opens Sept. 27 in Clinton Township, while Clintondale Community Schools and Fraser City Hall upgraded courts. Sterling Heights plans a $10 million indoor complex with nine courts, opening in July 2026, supporting community recreation and wellness.
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