“We simply do not have the resources to address every major maintenance need across Portland’s parks system,” interim parks director Art Pearce said in a statement announcing the deal. “By partnering with a nonprofit organization that shares our commitment to public access, we’re able to keep Portland Tennis Center publicly owned, make long-overdue facility improvements, expand opportunities to play, and preserve resources for parks and recreation services throughout Portland.”
Under the agreement, the nonprofit will invest $2.3 million into renovations of the 53-year-old tennis center, which has been described as having, among other problems, “a notoriously leaky roof and poor lighting.”
“As part of the agreement, USTA also plans to expand tennis access throughout the city by offering complimentary memberships for the first year after the facility reopens,” reports local outlet KOIN 6, which also noted that the nonprofit has committed to ensuring affordable access to the center and even “need-based scholarships and free loaner equipment.”
In addition, the nonprofit will offer impacted city employees first-round interviews for employment under the nonprofit, and the nonprofit will provide programming at some of the city’s outdoor tennis courts.
It appears to be a win-win for all involved. The city, which will retain ownership of the property, gets direct assistance in both maintenance and management, while also projecting to save $779,000 a year. Those who play tennis on Portland courts should experience tangible improvements under the leadership of a nonprofit whose mission centers on tennis. And, thanks to offloading this responsibility, the city parks department can focus on its bigger problem of shoring up maintenance across the parks system.
