According to the Guardian, the city commission of Fort Lauderdale along with developers closed on a $2bn dollar deal to renovate “Bahia Mar marina and surrounding acreage that will turn the area into a “mini Monaco” with a luxury hotel, high-end residences, upmarket shopping and waterfront promenade.” Although the renovations were welcomed, many did not know that the development of new pickleball courts would come at the cost of destroying Fort Lauderdale’s beach front basketball court.
In response to the news, organizers have raised their concerns. Beach Ballers, a group of players from the area, started a change.org petition called “Save Our Courts.” Moments on the courts are described as fundamental to the fabric of the cultural and social life of many residents who travel via bus and bike just for the courts. Beach Ballers also mentions that the developers plan to “eliminate the picnic grills and tables” to “create a private cabana club.”
Some see the choice to build pickleball courts on top of a community staple like the basketball courts is not only racially motivated but short-sighted as pickleball is a current trend. Although the beaches are in a wealthy area, those who utilize the courts are from various backgrounds outside of the targeted demographic of the developers. The formerly segregated beaches of Fort Lauderdale developed the courts after a failed lawsuit against civil rights activists for their wade-ins. There is a deep rooted history that community members have to the courts and that can’t be replaced.
Since the public outcry, the Mayor has said that he doesn’t “know what the solution is, but” that he “can assess this and come up with a solution that can accommodate everyone.” Although some are skeptical, the Mayor affirms that the city should and can ensure that the courts stay alive.
This is a great reminder for all of us to stay up to date on developments in our neighborhood so we can preserve our history and keep our culture.
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