A proposal for a $65 million tennis and pickleball facility in Joe Creason Park has sparked debate among local residents. The project, spearheaded by Kentucky Tennis & Pickleball Center, Inc. (KYTPC), envisions a state-of-the-art complex on 25 acres of city-owned land. While KYTPC insists there is no formal affiliation with Bellarmine University, documents obtained through open records requests suggest otherwise. These records indicate that the facility was initially designed to support Bellarmine's tennis programs, raising questions about the university's potential involvement.
The controversy centers around the relationship between KYTPC and Bellarmine University. Public records reveal presentations that list Bellarmine's president and director of athletics as advisors for the project. One presentation highlights how the complex could elevate Bellarmine's tennis program to NCAA Division I status, enhance recruitment, and provide cooperative learning opportunities for various academic programs. Despite these connections, both KYTPC and Bellarmine maintain that the university has not been involved in the development or funding of the project.
KYTPC CEO Will Davis, who also serves as head coach of Bellarmine's men's tennis team, stated that Bellarmine personnel were informed about the project early on but have had no control over it. The nonprofit emphasizes its interest in partnering with a major college tennis team, though no lease terms have been discussed. This stance contrasts with documents suggesting Bellarmine's potential role as a tenant.
Support for the project comes from organizations like the U.S. Tennis Association and the Atlantic Sun Conference, which expressed interest in hosting championships at the proposed site. However, opposition remains strong among nearby residents concerned about the use of public land for this development.
In response to inquiries, Bellarmine University reiterated its lack of involvement in the project. Spokesman Jason Cissell confirmed that the university is aware of the proposal but has neither participated in its funding nor engaged in negotiations with KYTPC. As discussions continue, the future of the tennis and pickleball complex remains uncertain, reflecting broader tensions over land use and institutional partnerships in urban areas.
