From David Volz
The Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department and Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners District 10 Commissioner Anthony Rodriguez to dedicated eight new pickleball courts at Tropical Park.
“I’m very proud of our Parks Department for always making sure our green and open spaces are up-to-date and ready to accommodate our community’s changing needs,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “These new pickleball courts are a great addition to our wonderful parks system and will add even more quality of life for residents who love playing this incredibly popular sport.”
In addition to the already existing four pickleball courts at the park, these eight new courts come complete with lighting, making it easier for pickleball enthusiasts to play during the evening hours.
“These eight additional courts will meet a real demand, given the sport’s rising popularity,” said Vice Chairman Rodriguez. “Tropical Park is surrounded by a very active community of sports enthusiasts, and I am thrilled that area residents now have the added amenity of lighted pickleball courts to enjoy.”
There are 36.5 million pickleball players in the United States according to new data released in January 2023 by the Association of Pickleball Professionals. For three consecutive years, pickleball has been ranked the fastest-growing sport in America, with a 158.6 % growth rate between 2020 and 2023. Miami-Dade Parks continues to provide for the growing demand of the sport, as part of the Parks Department’s mission to create outstanding recreational experiences that enhance the community’s quality of life.
“We are excited to celebrate the installation of the lighted pickleball courts at Tropical Park that expand outdoor recreational opportunities for Miami-Dade County residents,” said Miami-Dade Parks Director Maria Nardi. “This is 12 out of 73 pickleball courts we have throughout the county, and we look forward to having the community enjoy these wonderful amenities.”