$50 million pickleball facility to be built in Springdale

A $50 million pickleball development is planned for east of Interstate 49 along the new segment of Emma Avenue in Springdale, according to a partnership group. The first-of-its-kind project in the region will include a 70,000-square-foot building with 23 indoor pickleball courts and 30 outdoor courts.

The partnership group, comprising Northwest Arkansas residents, plans to build The Big Dill Pickleball Club & Academy on about 12 acres on the north side of Emma Avenue, east of 40th Street. Arkansas native Reggie Brasfield is founder and partner.

“Ultimately, one of our goals is we want a professional team,” said Brasfield, adding that the building will have five show courts, including center court. “This is going to be the most premier facility in the country.”

Asked why build this, Brasfield said, “We have two things: that there’s a love for community…understanding the benefits of sports, whether it’s outdoor-related, and also for the youth – to give Northwest Arkansas something that no one else has…

“We want people to be healthy and active,” he added. “It’s a social sport. So, creating more of that comradery within Northwest Arkansas — that’s the reason why it’s in Springdale. We put it in the center of Northwest Arkansas, so you don’t separate counties.”

The group owns the land for the development, which will include health and wellness, housing, retail/office and training components. In addition to the 53 professional-grade pickleball courts, the development will also include a bar, pro shop, restaurant, and other retail and commercial space.

According to the group, other phases of the overall $100 million to $150 million project include nearby multifamily related to the project’s on-site training academy. The housing would be for those traveling to the area to train there. However, the pickleball club will cater to all skill levels and have experienced staff and instructors.

As it works to build a professional team, the group looks to start a training academy focused on high school and college students before expanding to other age groups. The group is focused on player development and building the sport and looks to be to pickleball what the U.S. Tennis Association is to tennis.

“We’re excited to bring this world-class pickleball and wellness facility to our Northwest Arkansas,” the partnership group said. “Our goal is to create a vibrant community where players of all levels can come together to play, learn and socialize.”

A groundbreaking is slated for spring 2025. The pickleball venue in Springdale is set to open by the first quarter of 2026, and the other phases of the project are expected to follow or be built along with it.