See 10 Arklatex Leaders Who Support Caddo’s Pickleball Park
Caddo Parish leaders are moving forward with a plan that could transform Shreveport into a regional hub for one of America’s fastest-growing sports, pickleball. The proposed $10 million Caddo Parish Pickleball Park (CPPP), planned behind the Lash Family YMCA on Ellerbe Road, is attracting strong support from state leaders, local institutions, and national pickleball organizations.
A Shreveport Facility Designed for Growth
The complex will feature 19 regulation courts, a championship stadium court with seating for 1,000, a 6,000-square-foot clubhouse, walking trails, and more than 500 parking spaces. It is designed not only for local players but also to host major tournaments that could bring thousands of visitors to the region each year.
Pickleball has exploded in popularity, with more than 48 million players nationwide. Local courts are already packed daily, even in extreme heat, signaling the demand for more dedicated space.
Economic Impact for Shreveport-Bossier
Tourism experts say the park could be a game changer. A single three-day regional tournament with 1,000 players is projected to generate over $1.2 million in direct spending on meals, hotels, and entertainment. With multiple tournaments each year, the facility could pump millions into the local economy, supporting jobs and small businesses.
“This is about more than pickleball,” Commissioner Grace Anne Blake said. “It’s about sports tourism, quality of life, and keeping Shreveport from being just a pass-through corridor. This is revenue we can reinvest in our community.”
READ MORE: Caddo Pickleball Complex: A Winning Investment?
Broad Support Across Louisiana
Endorsements for the project have poured in from Governor Jeff Landry’s office, the Caddo Parish School Board, LSU Shreveport, Grambling State University, Sheriff Henry Whitehorn, and Mayor Tom Arceneaux, among many others.
National organizations have also taken notice. Major League Pickleball has expressed interest in bringing professional-level events to Shreveport, while the Southern Pickleball Association has committed to helping bid for state and regional tournaments.
Accessible and Community-Minded
Importantly, the park won’t just serve visiting athletes. Caddo Parish Schools plan to incorporate pickleball into student programs, while USA Pickleball has pledged grants for equipment in underserved neighborhoods. The YMCA will manage the facility, ensuring it remains open and accessible to residents of all ages.
A Vision for Shreveport's Future
Construction could begin in 2026, with a grand opening planned for 2027. Leaders believe the park will help position Shreveport-Bossier as a destination for sports tourism while providing a first-class recreational amenity for locals.
As Blake put it, “This project is a win for everyone, from the children learning the game in our schools to the businesses that will benefit from visitors traveling here. It’s time we invest in something that brings people in, instead of watching them pass us by.”