Phoenix Tennis Center unveils $4.5M revamp
The Phoenix Tennis Center has seen it all in the past 40-plus years, from high-profile tournaments and superstars like Billie Jean King to no-profile players using poorlylit, cracked courts.
A $4.5 million renovation, unveiled at a grand reopening this spring, brings the center back to its former glory with a bustling schedule of tournaments and high praise from players.
The tennis center, near 21st and Glendale avenues, has been a well-used amenity for decades, drawing players from the neighborhood and around the country. When it began falling into disrepair, local players pushed city officials to renovate the center.
“It was the showplace of all tennis centers around the Valley when it opened,’’ said Gale Kristof, tournament director for the Match Point Tennis Club and one of the players who worked with the city on the renovation. “Other centers opened as Phoenix Tennis Center declined. Now it’s back to being a showplace.”
The city is now considering whether to renovate the original pro shop and locker rooms. Officials do not have a firm cost or timetable for that possible project, Parks Department spokesman Gregg Bach said.
The Phoenix Tennis Center, 6330 N. 21st Ave., opened in 1969. It is part of a larger complex that includes the Washington Activity Center and Washington Park. Today, the 46-year-old center is back at the top of its game.
Players and guests enter through a new entrance and pass by updated landscaping. The center boasts 25 all-new courts, efficient modern lighting, and new fencing and wind screens.
Players take breaks between courts under 14 small shade canopies with integrated bench seating. Spectators enjoy games from new bleachers under six large shade canopies. Chilled drinking fountains feature bottle fillers.