New pickleball complex coming to Burlington

BURLINGTON, N.C. (WGHP) – Pickleball fans in the city of Burlington are getting a new pickleball complex.

There will be 17 courts, 16 regular courts and one championship court with bleachers for people to watch.

John Vernon with the City of Burlington Public Information Office says its the number one growing sport nationwide, and people in Burlington are ready to play.

“The most public comment we’re hearing is we need you to hurry up,” Vernon said.

He says pickleball is the biggest growing sport in Burlington, so the city is answering the call with a $4.5 million project.

“If there’s any evidence for the demand from the current playing community then they will be filled most of the time,” Vernon said.

A 17-court facility comes with a hefty price tag, but Vernon says the city has a plan.

“The city is partnering with the Sports Facilities Company who have a proven track record optimizing these kinds of spaces for tournament play,” he said.

Sports Facilities Companies is a national sports facility management company. The plan is for them to help the city create programs for lessons and camps for the Burlington community.

The city is hoping this will offset the cost by welcoming other pickleball players from across the state when the facility can finally host tournaments.

“As a lot of people know, regional sports tourism and bringing people into communities for sports tournaments can bring a lot of money into communities,” Vernon said.

Vernon says the city hopes to have these courts ready by fall for people to enjoy.

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