Groundbreaking for 24,000 square-foot indoor pickleball facility in Kalamazoo County marks major milestone
Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Start of Construction on 24,000 Square-Foot Indoor Pickleball Facility in Kalamazoo County
Excitement filled the air as the groundbreaking ceremony took place on Wednesday, Nov. 20, for a new indoor pickleball facility in Kalamazoo County. The facility, set to be 24,000 square feet in size, is being developed by Friendly Pickle at 5675 West D Ave. in Alamo Township.
The groundbreaking event was a festive occasion, with confetti flying as construction officially began on the state-of-the-art facility. Scheduled to open in June 2025, the facility promises to offer a unique and top-notch pickleball experience for players of all ages and skill levels.
Owned by longtime Kalamazoo residents Ben and Robin Ipema, Friendly Pickle aims to provide a dedicated space for pickleball enthusiasts in the area. The facility will feature eight climate-controlled, championship-sized courts, two comfortable lounge areas, and comprehensive training programs.
“This groundbreaking represents a significant milestone in our mission to promote and grow pickleball for all ages and abilities in the greater Kalamazoo area,” said Ben and Robin Ipema in a joint statement. “We are excited to enhance the recreational landscape in Kalamazoo and to create more opportunities for our community to enjoy fun, fellowship, and top-tier competition.”
The facility will offer a range of services, including leagues, tournaments, professional coaching, wheelchair pickleball, youth programs, and more. Additionally, memberships and visitor passes will allow individuals to reserve courts in advance, ensuring easy access to the facility’s amenities.
With construction underway, Friendly Pickle is set to become a premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts in Kalamazoo County. The facility’s innovative design, commitment to quality, and focus on community engagement are sure to make it a popular spot for players of all levels.
For more information about Friendly Pickle and the upcoming indoor pickleball facility, visit friendlypickle.com.
