News Summary

Spokane is moving forward with a proposal for a new indoor tennis facility at Shadle Park, part of the Together Spokane initiative. This project aims to improve community engagement in tennis and address the need for more accessible courts, particularly during winter months. The facility is set to offer two new indoor courts alongside existing outdoor ones, and it will provide physical education classes and after-school programs. Funding for the $440 million initiative will be put to a vote in November, aimed at boosting local tennis infrastructure and community health.

Spokane Eyes New Indoor Tennis Facility at Shadle Park

Exciting news, Spokane! The city is buzzing with the proposal of a new indoor tennis facility at Shadle Park, as part of a grand $440 million initiative known as Together Spokane. This exciting plan comes from a collaboration between Spokane Public Schools, Spokane Parks and Recreation, and the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Pacific Northwest. It aims to boost community engagement through a sport that many cherish.

A Personal Connection

Scott Wortley, the boys tennis coach at Lewis and Clark High School, has expressed his support for this proposal. He remembers his childhood when he practiced tennis at home due to the lack of available courts. His memories resonate with many who have faced similar situations. The need for more accessible tennis facilities is a real concern in Spokane, especially during the colder months when playing outside just isn’t possible.

The Together Spokane Initiative

This indoor facility is part of the broader Together Spokane initiative, which includes plans to revamp various parks and schools in the area. The proposal is scheduled to be put to a vote in November, with a property tax levy and a bond on the ballot designed to gather funds for these improvements. This major renovation is expected to make a substantial difference in the community.

Funding Details

The plan aims to collect $240 million from property owners over a span of 20 years, which translates to an increase of approximately 27 cents per $1,000 in assessed value. For those owning a property worth $400,000, this would mean around $108 more in taxes each year. In addition, a separate school bond is expected to cost taxpayers between 6 to 31 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, which will also be payable over the same 20-year term. While it might sound like a lot, it’s a small investment for the potential benefits to the community.

Indoor Tennis Facility Details

The projected cost for constructing the indoor tennis facility ranges between $1 million and $2.5 million, which is quite reasonable considering the current alternatives. Spokane has only three private clubs offering indoor tennis, which limits residents’ opportunities to play during winter months. The demand is high, with the Pacific Northwest home to just 22 indoor courts serving more than 44,000 active tennis players.

The proposal includes two new indoor courts envisaged right next to the existing eight outdoor courts at Shadle Park. To make the most of these courts, an innovative weather-protective “bubble” will be installed to ensure year-round usability—goodbye to weather constraints!

Community Engagement and Health Benefits

Spokane is looking to incorporate various benefits into this initiative. The new facility is intended not only for tennis enthusiasts but also to provide in-school physical education classes and after-school programs for students and the general public. This is a wonderful way to foster a love for tennis among kids and families, encouraging a more active lifestyle.

Studies have shown that playing tennis can significantly enhance players’ health, even adding nearly 10 years to a person’s life! That’s not just a fun game; it’s a game-changer for wellbeing. It’s all about creating a healthier community through fun, active engagement.

The Road Ahead

As the Spokane Public School Board has approved the language for the Together Spokane ballot initiative, momentum is building. With the community’s input and passion for tennis, Spokane is on track to develop its sports infrastructure to meet growing demands and provide lasting benefits to its citizens. This proposed indoor tennis facility could be a fantastic step forward for the community, and the local excitement is palpable!

So, be ready to support this inspiring initiative and vote when November rolls around. Together, we can make Spokane a better place for everyone who loves tennis!

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