Mesa is celebrating the addition of eight new pickleball courts at the Mesa Tennis and Pickleball Center at Gene Autry Park, 4125 E. McKellips Road. The grand opening event on Wednesday, Oct. 25, at 5:30 p.m. will feature a brief program, ribbon-cutting ceremony and residents playing pickleball.
"I appreciate the Mesa Parks and Recreation staff's vision to expand one of Mesa's crown jewels in our parks system, Gene Autry Park. I have no doubt the new pickleball courts will be well-used and well-loved," said Mayor John Giles. "As pickleball continues to gain popularity, I'm thrilled for more residents to have the opportunity to play at a Mesa park."
The eight new pickleball courts include two oversized courts. With the additions, the Mesa Tennis and Pickleball Center now offers 16 lighted tennis courts, nine lighted pickleball courts and four sand volleyball courts for rental. The center also has updated its signage and windscreens.
"The overwhelming demand and need for more pickleball courts in our community speaks volumes about our residents' passion and enthusiasm for this fantastic sport. We eagerly look forward to expanding these facilities further to meet the desires of our active and engaged community," said District 2 Councilmember Julie Spilsbury. "This award-winning facility is not only a source of pride for our City, but also a testament to our commitment to a healthier, active community."
The Mesa Tennis and Pickleball Center is the only tennis facility in Arizona named among the winners of the United States Tennis Association's 2021 Outstanding Facility Award.
"The new courts and other amenities add to what is already an outstanding award-winning facility," said Troy Campbell, Chair of the Mesa Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. "This is a great example of how the City of Mesa works to provide the absolute best for our residents."
Construction on the court expansion began in May 2023 and was funded from proceeds of a sale of City-owned land at Thomas Road and Recker Road.