The future of a proposed $10 million pickleball complex in south Shreveport comes down to a key vote this week. On Thursday, September 18, the Caddo Parish Commission will decide whether to advance the project, which has been in discussion for months and has drawn both strong support and pointed questions.
A Partnership with the YMCA
The plan centers around a partnership with the Lash Family YMCA, which would provide land through a long-term lease, while the parish would cover construction costs through bond financing. Once completed, the YMCA would manage the facility. The design calls for 19 lit pickleball courts, including eight with shade coverings, a championship court with seating for 1,000 spectators, walking trails, picnic areas, and parking for up to 500 vehicles.
Why Pickleball in Shreveport, Why Now
Supporters argue that the project meets two pressing needs: providing parish facilities in southeast Caddo, an area identified as underserved during public town halls, and keeping pace with the rapid rise of pickleball as a recreational and competitive sport.
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Commissioner John Atkins said the project is a chance to meet a clear demand. “A common theme that came out of our community meetings was the lack of facilities in southeast Caddo and a strong push for pickleball. It’s one of the fastest growing sports, and people here want a place to play,” he explained.
Financial Questions and Risks
Some residents have questioned whether projected revenues will be enough to cover costs. The parish’s financial analysis assumes a 40 percent utilization rate at $10 per hour per player, which would generate about $628,000 annually, enough to meet debt service on the bond.
Atkins emphasized that those numbers were designed to be cautious. “The projections are intentionally conservative. Even if we cut them in half, the shortfall would be a fraction of the parish’s overall budget. We would not be endangering the strength of the parish, and no services would be cut,” he said.
Courts, Costs, and Tournaments in Shreveport
Another point of debate has been whether the complex should scale back to fewer courts to reduce costs, or even add indoor facilities to extend play year-round.
Atkins said it’s a balance between cost and opportunity. “I’m still not sure whether we wouldn’t be better off with 10 courts as opposed to 19, but if we’re going to do it, let’s do it right. The bigger question is whether more courts would help us attract major tournaments and if those tournaments would justify the capital cost,” he noted.
What Happens Next
If approved, the next steps would include finalizing the lease with the YMCA, locking in bond financing, and beginning detailed design work. Construction could begin in 2026, with the first courts opening as early as 2027…