Tennis free to play again at West End court after city votes to end lease agreement

The Sargent Park Tennis Gardens, located in the West End neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio, have recently become accessible to the public for free following the City of Columbus' decision not to renew a lease agreement with the previous management company, Premier Sports Management (PSM). The tennis courts, which were previously operated as a private business, are now under the management of the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department (CRPD).

The Sargent Park Tennis Gardens, established in 1922, is one of the oldest tennis facilities in Columbus, featuring 12 clay courts, six of which are lighted for night play. The facility has undergone several renovations over the years, most recently in 2016, when PSM took over management from CRPD. The arrangement with PSM was intended to be temporary, but it lasted for over five years.

Under PSM's management, the tennis courts were operated as a private business, with fees for court usage ranging from $5 to $10 per hour, depending on the time of day and whether lights were needed. This fee structure was a significant barrier for many residents in the community, particularly those who could not afford to pay for every visit.

In response to community concerns about accessibility, Columbus City Councilmember Elizabeth Brown, who represents the West End area, advocated for the city to regain control of the tennis gardens. Brown, who has been an avid supporter of making recreational facilities more accessible to all residents, worked with CRPD and other city departments to explore options for bringing the tennis courts back under city management.

In March 2023, City Council voted unanimously to terminate the lease agreement with PSM and return management of the tennis gardens to CRPD. The decision was met with enthusiasm from local residents, who were thrilled at the prospect of being able to use the courts for free.

CRPD plans to begin offering tennis programs and lessons for residents of all ages and skill levels, with an emphasis on providing opportunities for underserved communities. The department is also exploring partnerships with local organizations, such as the Columbus Tennis Association, to expand programming and ensure that the tennis gardens remain an integral part of the West End community for generations to come.

With the tennis courts now open to the public for free, CRPD encourages residents to come out and enjoy this historic facility. The tennis gardens are located at 1150 W. 5th Ave., and courts can be reserved online or by calling CRPD's tennis hotline at (614) 645-3300. For more information about tennis programs and lessons, visit the CRPD website at columbus.gov/parks.