Phase I of the West Hills Tennis Center Rescue project is complete and Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam will officially open the eight renovated courts for play on Monday, November 17, at 3 p.m. 

Mayor Haslam played the first point on the new West Hills tennis courts with Greater Knoxville Tennis Association President Karen Kelly on Monday, November 17. Tennis players are invited to attend the ceremony and be among the first to play on the new courts. The project is a joint effort between the City's Parks and Recreation Department and the Greater Knoxville Tennis Association (GKTA). The City of Knoxville paid $259,273 of the project, and GKTA provided the remaining $150,000. 
 
"This effort was initiated and seen through by the Greater Knoxville Tennis Association," explained Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam. "We as a city are fortunate to have a partner like the GKTA, and their efforts are a great example to other recreation interest groups. If you're a group that wants to see something happen with a City facility, the City officials are here to listen and help make it happen." 
 
The centrally located courts are heavily used by recreational players, schools and for tournaments and leagues.

"The new tennis court complex in West Hills, along with Tyson Tennis Center, will prove to be a draw for major regional tournaments in Knoxville," explained Joe Walsh, Director of Parks and Recreation. "This project is a great example of the importance of GKTA's pivotal role in Knoxville tennis." 

Walsh added that the contractor, Baseline Sports, finished the project one month ahead of schedule.

Renovations include upgraded lighting, new green vinyl fencing and the installation and upgrading of drainage systems and court repaving. The courts were painted a popular blue-green color combination, and a wide walkway/viewing area was built between courts four and five.

GKTA President Karen Kelly said fundraising is ongoing for Phase II of the project, which will involve securing donations and grants to build a clubhouse with restrooms for players. 
 
"The addition of a staffed clubhouse will enable the city to offer more programs for players of all abilities and ages," she said.

For a listing of City tennis facilities and programs, please call 865-522-3303.