https://heraldcourier.com/news/bristol-tennessee-moves-forward-with-plans-for-pickleball-complex/article_526a1282-024f-11ed-b86a-ff2ad93098c0.html BRISTOL, Tenn. - A plan to build a 12-court pickleball park in Bristol, Tennessee is becoming a reality. The Bristol Tennessee City Council unanimously approved a resolution Tuesday to enter a public-private partnership and lease agreement with the owners of the Bristol SportsPlex, a move which will allow the city to build the park on a two-acre parcel of land on Bluff City Highway adjacent to the SportsPlex. Terry Napier, the city's parks and recreation director, said the hope is for the SportsPlex and the pickleball park to occasionally host national-level tournaments and regional tournaments monthly. With the combined capabilities of the SportsPlex and the new park, the entire complex could be able to host a 28-court pickleball tournament, making it a regional destination for pickleball players. "When this is finished (we could) be one of the largest pickleball complexes in the state for a tournament," Napier told the council Tuesday. In a June briefing, SportsPlex owner Matt Lavinder presented to council renderings of a proposed patio expansion on SportsPlex property next to the pickleball park that would include an outdoor bar with a social space and stage that would be operated by the SportsPlex. The pickleball park will be built by the city and maintained by the city, as detailed in a 30-year lease. The council also approved an agreement with a third party to develop concept plans and for other construction-related services in order to move the plan forward. Once the design and pre-construction phase is complete, the council will award a construction bid. Napier estimated in June that the park's construction will cost the city approximately $750,000, money that has already been budgeted for this fiscal year. Park construction will include the 12 courts with lighting, restrooms, car access and parking. The park will be free for public use, while paid programming will be offered through the SportsPlex. Councilwoman Lea Powers called the project "another step towards building a vibrant community." Napier said last month the park could be completed as soon as spring 2023. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The City reserves the right to reject any and all proposals received and to waive informalities on all or any part of any proposal which may be deemed to be in the best interests of the City. PROJECT OVERVIEW / SCOPE OF WORK
The Pickleball Park will be a new park. The park will serve as a public park but will be a
Public/Private project. The land, will be leased from the SportsPlex and the SportsPlex will
conduct programs, tournaments etc. as part of the agreement. The completed Park will include 12
courts, lights, restrooms/pavilion, parking/access and other normal park amenities.
The scope of the project is further defined below. A concept sketch of the proposed new park
layout area is attached. The selected firm will be responsible for the final layout based on their
experiences and input from City staff.
Approximate 2 acre site contains 5 old tennis courts/fencing and an additional 16,000 sq. ft.
of paved surface that is in disrepair. All materials and paving will be removed/replaced for
this project.
New facility to include 12 courts, fencing, lighting, seating, etc.
Sidewalks connecting the SportsPlex, New Park and SportsPlex Outdoor courts.
Appropriate landscaping
Covered Pavilion area and restroom structure.
New access from Bluff City Highway, and exit to Raytheon Rd all paved.
Maintain as much usable "Green-space" as practical.
Provide construction administration and other services that may be required.
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