University of Alabama Students Enjoy New Rec Pickleball Courts

With the popularity of pickleball still in an upswing, the University of Alabama expanded its student recreation facilities to meet growing demand. In spring 2025, HNP Landscape Architecture was selected to design an expansion of the existing tennis complex to include new pickleball courts.

Working within a constrained drainage area for site runoff, HNP developed a creative solution to efficiently incorporate the new courts alongside the existing recreation area. The project moved quickly from design to construction, with bidding completed in May 2025 and the courts opening to students just four months later.
The expansion added eight new courts, complete with lighting, secure access, and improved connectivity. The result is an active space that reduces wait times and enhances the overall student experience.

Dean Shackleford, Assistant Project Manager for Construction Administration, said, "The Student Recreation Court Expansion has been one of the most exciting projects I have been a part of during my time at UA. The new pickleball courts create a vibrant space where students can stay active, spend time with friends, and take a break from the demands of a busy academic schedule. HNP was an outstanding partner throughout the process, working closely with our team to design the courts in a challenging location and helping us deliver a facility that will have a lasting impact on the student experience.”

HNP appreciates the opportunity to continue its partnership with the University of Alabama in delivering high-quality campus improvements.