Revenue from development pays for 4 new courts to enhance City’s tennis offerings, citywide outdoor courts expected to benefit as well
(Portland, OR) –
Portland Parks Commissioner Amanda Fritz and Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) Director Mike Abbaté welcomed tennis enthusiasts of all ages to celebrate the new indoor tennis courts at PP&R’s Portland Tennis Center, 324 NE 12th Ave. Portland Parks & Recreation, partners, tennis players from across the region and other guests celebrated the completed project at a free celebration on Saturday, October 17, 2015.
The new, air-supported, covered playing surfaces bring the total of indoor courts at the Portland Tennis Center (PTC) to eight. An accessible ramp to the facility has been completed as well, to improve access for all.
“These beautiful indoor courts allow for greater recreational opportunities for everyone,” says Parks Commissioner Fritz. “That’s how we achieve our mission of ‘Healthy Parks, Healthy Portland’. And with the rainy season coming, it’s great to have more indoor play options in our system.”
Both PTC’s indoor and four outdoor courts are available for public use, and for lessons and tournament rental.
“A lot of hard work went into this valuable project,” says PP&R Director Mike Abbaté. “And we thank our staff and partners for their tremendous efforts. The new tennis bubble will provide more places to play tennis, a lifelong sport, no matter what sort of Northwest weather shows up outside.”
Funding for the project came from Parks System Development Charges (SDCs), one-time fees assessed to new development. Parks SDCs cover a portion of the cost of providing new parks, trails, natural areas and other recreational facilities to keep pace with a growing city. PP&R expects that court fees will cover the cost of the project, and that any additional revenue will be further invested in the rehabilitation of outdoor City courts across Portland– many of which are in dire need of repair and enhancement.
PP&R hired Richard Brown Architect to lead a team of design professionals to provide construction drawings for the project. Yeadon Fabric Domes was selected through a competitive process to furnish and install the air supported structure.
Portland Parks & Recreation opened the Portland Tennis Center (PTC) in 1973. It is located at 324 NE 12th Ave., adjacent to Buckman Field and Benson High School in northeast Portland.