New Pickleball Hub at Lloyd Center: A new pickleball facility is set to open at the Lloyd Center in October, marking a significant development for the struggling Northeast Portland mall. Jumbo’s Pickleball will occupy the former Regal Cinema space, located adjacent to the food court on the third floor.
The new venue will span 45,000 square feet and feature eight indoor courts, catering to league play, open play, lessons, and tournaments. Additionally, the facility will include a merchandise store and a lounge area offering food and drinks. This expansion follows Jumbo’s Pickleball’s recent success with its first indoor facility in Beaverton.
The Surge in Pickleball Popularity
Pickleball, a racket sport resembling tennis but played on a smaller court with a paddle and a lightweight plastic ball, has seen a surge in popularity. This growth has driven the creation of new public and private courts nationwide. The rise of pickleball reflects broader trends in sports and recreation, highlighting the increasing demand for versatile indoor facilities.
Mall’s Transformation Efforts
The Lloyd Center, once a retail hub, faced significant challenges after being foreclosed upon by New York lender KKR in 2021. In response, the Seattle-based Urban Renaissance Group was brought in to revitalize the mall. The center has since attracted local businesses with temporary leases at favorable rates. Former anchor stores have been repurposed for community events, such as a pop-up roller skating disco and a satellite campus for a children’s wilderness camp.
Long-Term Redevelopment Plans
In the fall of last year, the mall’s owners revealed a comprehensive redevelopment plan for the 29.3-acre site. The vision includes transforming the area into a mixed-use development featuring shopping, housing, entertainment venues, and a possible reincarnation of the mall’s iconic ice skating rink. However, the redevelopment is expected to unfold in phases over several years.
News in Brief: New Pickleball Hub at Lloyd Center
A new Jumbo’s Pickleball facility will open at the Lloyd Center in October, featuring eight indoor courts for various pickleball activities. Spanning 45,000 square feet, the venue will include a merchandise store and lounge area. This development is part of ongoing efforts to revitalize the mall, which has faced challenges since its foreclosure in 2021.
The Lloyd Center’s long-term redevelopment plan aims to transform the site into a mixed-use development with shopping, housing, and entertainment options over the coming years.
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