SLC.gov

Aug. 4, 2025

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Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall joined pickleball enthusiasts and community members today to celebrate the grand opening of 12 new pickleball courts at Glendale Park, marking a major milestone in the development of Salt Lake City’s first regional park in more than 60 years.  

“This project stands as a powerful example of what can happen when cities truly listen,” said Mayor Mendenhall. “These courts are the direct result of community voices shaping their own public spaces, and we’re proud to deliver this kind of meaningful, equitable investment to the Glendale neighborhood.” 

In 2022, the Department of Public Lands released a community-informed Vision Plan for Glendale Park–a redevelopment of the former Raging Waters/Seven Peaks waterpark site–informed by extensive community input. Further engagement in 2023 revealed demand for additional pickleball facilities. In response to feedback gathered through online surveys, neighborhood events, and one-on-one conversations, the Vision Plan and project phases were revised to transform four tennis courts into 12 pickleball courts, rather than adding just four new pickleball courts as originally planned.  

“This is community-led planning in action,” said Kim Shelley, Director of Public Lands. “We’re proud to help create a space that reflects the vision of Glendale residents–and one that will bring people together for years to come.” 

The new complex is part of a broader effort to increase pickleball access across the city, especially in westside neighborhoods. In 2026, 26 courts will be open on the west side, including new courts in the Poplar Grove and Fairpark neighborhoods, alongside 14 courts already open on the east side.

“Pickleball isn’t just a trend, it’s a movement,” said Mendenhall. “It brings people together and creates community. These courts will be a gathering place for learning, laughing, competing, and connecting.” 

The pickleball courts are the first amenity to be finished in the City’s first regional park in more than six decades. Scheduled for completion in fall 2025, the first phase of Glendale Park will feature an all-abilities playground, full basketball court, walking paths, shaded canopies, a large open lawn space, and parking. Phase two design plans are currently underway, with construction to come in subsequent years.  

“Public open spaces like Glendale Park are essential to our community’s health, resilience, and quality of life,” Shelley added. “This park is designed to be a place for everyone: safe, inclusive, and fun.” 

It was originally funded by $3.2 million in parks impact fees. In November 2022, Salt Lake City voters approved an $85 million General Obligation Bond to provide funding for public lands projects, including $27 million for Glendale Park.