Sterling Heights to Build $10M Indoor Pickleball Center

Sterling Heights city officials broke ground Wednesday on a $10 million indoor pickleball center. The project will transform a vacant building on Van Dyke Avenue into the region's first municipal-run indoor facility.

The center sits north of 15 Mile Road. Officials say the project gets its funding from the voter-approved Pathway to Play & Preservation millage. It's one of several projects aimed at boosting recreation opportunities and converting underused properties.

"By transforming an existing building instead of starting from scratch, we're creating sustainable recreational opportunities that elevate the future of Sterling Heights while honoring our commitment to innovation, efficiency, and community health," said Mayor Michael Taylor in a news release, per Macomb Daily.

The $10 million price tag covers both the property purchase and construction. This makes it the first municipally-funded indoor pickleball facility in Macomb County. It's also only the second in Michigan.

The center will house nine pickleball courts, six tournament-ready table tennis courts, and community gathering spaces. It will also include restrooms, locker rooms, a nursing mothers' room, and a zen meditation room.

Drop-in pickleball and table tennis play will be free for residents. Programs, leagues, tournaments, or court rentals will carry a fee.

Parks & Recreation Director Kyle Langlois said pickleball has become "one of the fastest-growing sports in the nation." The sport has gained traction across age groups in recent years.

"This facility represents more than just new courts, it's an investment in wellness, connection, and sustainability," said Langlois in the release.

The facility is expected to be finished by July 2026. Construction crews will convert the existing structure rather than building from the ground up.