Vestavia Hills Approves Alabama’s First Indoor Pickleball Complex

Vestavia Hills to Welcome New Indoor Pickleball Complex

Vestavia Hills is set to become the home of Alabama’s first Picklr indoor pickleball complex, following a unanimous vote by the City Council on Monday night. The complex will occupy the former Sprouts grocery store location at 1031 Montgomery Highway, directly across from City Hall.

A Long-Awaited Development

The effort to fill the 28,092-square-foot space has been ongoing since Sprouts closed in 2018, leaving locals and officials searching for a suitable tenant to revitalize the area. City Assistant Manager Cinnamon McCulley, who stepped in for City Manager Jeff Downes at the meeting, expressed the project’s significance for the community.

“Filling this space has been a top priority for us,” McCulley said. “The new Picklr will not only address the growing enthusiasm for pickleball but also support economic development in our city.”

Details of the Project

The planned development includes 10 indoor pickleball courts, a pro shop, and a restaurant, designed to encourage both recreational play and professional events. Developer Patrick Denney, a resident of Vestavia Hills, shared additional details about the architectural plans created by Hendon & Huckestein Architects and the construction management company, Stewart Perry Construction Co..

Of the 10 courts planned, eight will be championship-grade, allowing for spectator seating for high-level tournaments. Denney mentioned that the facility hopes to attract professional pickleball competitions and serve as a central hub for local sports enthusiasts.

Economic Considerations

The project emerged from a public-private partnership agreement that also involves an initial investment of $300,000 from the city to Altera-AIP, the company formed to manage the development. This agreement seeks to stimulate growth along the Montgomery Highway corridor and revive the area’s economic environment.

McCulley outlined that a key component of the deal also includes rebating 50% of city tax revenues generated by the shopping center over a 10-year period, helping to rejuvenate the property and its surrounding areas.

A Need for Pickleball Facilities

The push for pickleball facilities comes as a response to increased demand from residents. McCulley noted that many residents have asked the city to convert existing tennis courts to pickleball, emphasizing the sport’s growing popularity.

“We are responding to that demand and creating a venue that offers convenience to our residents,” she stated, highlighting the positive outlook for this expansion in recreational opportunities.

Challenges and Opportunities

Denney also touched on the challenges of acquiring the shopping center, noting complexities related to the financing arrangements tied to the former Sprouts lease. Those challenges caused problems for potential subleases, making the public-private partnership necessary.

“This is a complicated finance structure,” Denney explained. “We had to navigate through various legal and financial hurdles, but we’re committed to making this work.” This effort represents a significant milestone for the community, as it transforms a vacant property into a thriving hub for recreation and entertainment.

Timeline for Completion

The project is set to break ground soon, with completion anticipated by late January or early February 2025. City officials and the community eagerly await the opening of this new venue, which promises to enhance recreational offerings in Vestavia Hills and draw visitors from outside the area.

Upcoming Council Meeting

Looking ahead, the Vestavia Hills City Council will hold its next action meeting on Monday, October 14, at 6 p.m. where community members can learn more about developments around the city, including the much-anticipated Picklr complex.