UPDATED: Major Expansion at John Hunt Park Tennis Center
Huntsville is celebrating the significant expansion of the Huntsville Tennis Center at John Hunt Park, News 19 reports. The project, which includes adding 10 brand-new hard courts and renovating six existing courts, marks a major enhancement to the city’s recreational offerings.
Unique Groundbreaking for Huntsville Tennis Center Expansion
Mayor Tommy Battle and city officials hosted a special event to mark the start of the Huntsville Tennis Center’s planned expansion. In a creative twist, tennis rackets replaced traditional groundbreaking shovels, and the ceremony featured officials launching tennis balls into the air to celebrate the occasion.
Growing Demand Drives Expansion
The ceremony highlighted the growing popularity of the Tennis Center, which is set to expand to meet increasing demand for court time.
“Improving quality of life for our residents is the driving motivation in everything we do,” said Mayor Battle. “The Huntsville Tennis Center is a tremendous asset, and we are excited to see this project started.”
Expansion Plans and Features
The expansion includes the construction of 10 new hard courts with lighting and the conversion of six existing hard courts to clay courts. Additionally, the project will feature a restroom pavilion, more parking, new sidewalks, landscaping, and irrigation to support the upgraded facilities.
Heavy Usage Shows Need for Expansion
Tennis Center Director Joc Simmons emphasized the center’s high usage, saying, “The Tennis Center is booked to capacity several nights each week. We have about 35,000 sign-ins each year, not counting tournaments, junior events, camps, and other special activities. Given that heavy demand, this expansion is greatly needed.”
City Council Support and Construction Timeline
In June, the City Council approved a $4.6 million construction contract with Chorba Contracting Corporation to carry out the expansion.
“The Council is elated to join the administration in supporting this project,” said Council Member Bill Kling, whose district includes the Tennis Center. “Tennis has long been a favorite activity in Huntsville and it’s great exercise for all ages.”
Construction is expected to take approximately 16 months, after which the Tennis Center will offer 36 soft courts and 10 hard courts for local and tournament play.
Enhancing Huntsville’s Recreation Scene
Parks & Recreation Director James Gossett noted the importance of the Tennis Center in Huntsville’s recreational landscape. “John Hunt Park is the centerpiece of the Huntsville recreation scene, and the Tennis Center is a big part of that,” he said. “This investment will greatly enhance tennis opportunities and attract more players to Huntsville.”
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