Monroe County Commissioners and staff will celebrate the grand opening of 10 new pickleball courts at Key Largo Community Park on Thursday, Aug. 22 at 8:30 a.m. Their construction followed rising local interest in the sport, and the courts have been years in the making.
“Previously, players had to convert basketball courts for pickleball,” said Parks and Beaches Director John Allen. “Now, they have dedicated courts. We thank the community and county staff for making this a reality for many enthusiasts.”
While Higgs Beach hosts six permanent courts and six multipurpose courts, the new courts at Key Largo Park will be the largest dedicated standalone pickleball complex in the Keys. Each court is separated by fencing. “This is a huge asset for our growing pickleball community,” said Allen. “The county and commissioners are committed to meeting the growing demand of our pickleball enthusiasts with this new addition, along with three additional courts soon to be constructed at Blue Heron in Big Pine Key.”
The courts will be open daily from 7:30 a.m. until sunset.
A pickleball tournament on Saturday, Sept. 21, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., will be held to raise money for Wesley House Family Services. The deadline for player registration is Sept. 13. For more information, visit www.wesleyhouse.org/pickleball. Wesley House Family Services is a nonprofit based in Monroe County dedicated to protecting and nurturing children and strengthening families.
