Roger Scott Tennis Center upgrades

The upgrades to the Roger Scott Tennis Center have broken ground this past Monday, June 29. Unfortunately, some trees must be removed in the process, but I have spoken with Parks & Recreation Director David Flaherty to ensure that any tree removal is kept to a minimum.

The additions include ten soft courts with underground irrigation, a bathroom facility including storage space, and 38 new parking spaces. The existing eighteen hard courts will be resurfaced, and a concession area will be added. The City should also acquire its temporary beer and wine license within 90 days, to provide additional service to patrons.

The project is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year. Funding for the project comes from a $1 million pledge from Escambia County. County Commissioner Grover Robinson led the effort to secure the funding. $350,000 comes from Local Option Sales Tax in the City of Pensacola. That effort was led by the Friends of Roger Scott, Mr. Joe Lovoy, and many others too numerous to name. I'd also like to thank City Manager Al Coby, Community Development Director Thaddeus Cohen, and Parks & Recreation Director David Flaherty.

The excitement being expressed by the tennis community has been overwhelming the past few days. With the larger facility, we'll be able to attract more tournaments, bringing more players and guests in from out-of-town, which will be an ecominc boost for our community, with added business for our hotels, restaurants, and other businesses. Our older residents will be able to take advantage of the softer tennis courts, which are easier on muscles and joints.

These upgrades will improve the quality of life for our residents and make our community an even more attractive place to live and play.