The world’s first Pickleball Stadium: The Fort, a state-of-the-art pickleball stadium and entertainment complex, is set to open later this month in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Touted as the world’s first stadium exclusively for pickleball, the venue promises to reshape the landscape of the sport.
A Massive Facility for Pickleball Fans
Located at 891 SW 34 St., about 21 miles north of Miami, The Fort will offer 43 courts, four grandstands, and seating for up to 2,000 spectators. In addition to the courts, the facility will house the official headquarters and training center for the Association of Pickleball Players.
Membership options, day passes, and a full-service restaurant will also be available, creating a comprehensive sports and entertainment destination.
A $25 Million Public-Private Partnership
The nearly $25 million project is a collaboration between Fort Lauderdale and My Park Initiative, the developer behind The Fort. The development, situated on 10 acres of city-owned land at Snyder Park, is being funded primarily by My Park Initiative, with Centennial Bank providing a $7 million construction loan to complete the final phase.
The Rapid Growth of Pickleball
Pickleball has seen explosive growth in recent years, with 48.3 million Americans playing the sport, according to 2023 figures from the Association of Pickleball Players.
The sport’s rise in popularity has created new opportunities for venues like The Fort. David Druey, Centennial Bank’s Florida regional president, noted the bank’s role in financing similar projects across the country, recognizing the nationwide rise of pickleball.
The Future of Pickleball Facilities
The Fort will not only serve as a hub for local and national pickleball events but will also feature advanced technology such as live-streaming capabilities, instant replays, and coaching analysis. These innovations aim to enhance the spectator experience and provide athletes with cutting-edge training tools.
Under a partnership agreement approved in 2022, The Fort’s revenue will be split between My Park Initiative and the city of Fort Lauderdale. The developer will oversee operations for the next 50 years, ensuring the facility’s sustainability as a world-class pickleball venue.
News in Brief: The World’s First Pickleball Stadium
The Fort, the world’s first dedicated pickleball stadium, is nearing completion in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Scheduled to open later this month, the $25 million facility will feature 43 courts, grandstands for 2,000 spectators, and a full-service restaurant.
Developed through a public-private partnership, the complex aims to become the headquarters for the Association of Pickleball Players. The Fort will also include advanced technology for live-streaming and coaching analysis, further enhancing the sport’s growing popularity.