An eager crowd gathered at Pouncey Tract Park on Saturday as Henrico County officials unveiled an addition to the recreation scene: 12 new pickleball courts, representing a growing passion in central Virginia for the sport.
The event featured a ceremonial “first serve,” celebrating the completion of the $4.4 million project, which was approved by the Board of Supervisors in August 2023.
“For me, most important is the spirit of community that will continue to be embodied on these courts as young people continue to come play here or learn the sport,” Three Chopt Supervisor Misty D. Roundtree said. She added, “This is truly a sport where we see families playing together, and I love that.”
The new complex has 10 standard courts and two championship courts, with all courts illuminated for evening play. The standard courts measure 34 by 64 feet, while the championship courts are larger, measuring 44 by 74 feet. The project doubles the number of pickleball courts available at Pouncey Tract, which previously had four built in 2018 and eight added in 2019.
It also includes an expanded parking lot with 86 illuminated spaces, improved access roads and ADA-compliant walking paths, designed to accommodate the increasing number of players and spectators expected. The courts were designed by the Timmons Group and built by Rainbow Construction.
“Henrico County residents do not have to leave the county to come play the sport they love, and the best of all: it’s free,” Director of Recreation & Parks John Zannino said.
Henrico has embraced pickleball over the past few years, with events like the Virginia Pickleboo Classic and the World Pickleball Tour’s Richmond Pickleball Classic drawing thousands of players. Officials expect the new courts at Pouncey Tract Park to solidify the area as a hub for pickleball enthusiasts.
More information about the courts.
