City of Sumter announces expansion plan for Palmetto Tennis Center

City of Sumter has unveiled a plan for the expansion of Palmetto Tennis Center which will include a larger tennis operation building, expanded Pro Shop with concessions and new pickle ball courts among other features, according to city officials.

The expansion also calls for a meeting space and a singles court, according to a release from the city.

City officials said the expansion will happen in phases, with later phases including the addition of clay courts with stadium and court-side seating. Clay courts provide a softer surface for less impact on the body, sliding ability, higher and slower ball bounce, and equality in the serve-based play.

"Clay courts are known for their impeccable playing surface and are highly sought after by tennis professionals," city recreation director Susan Wild said. "We're lucky to have leadership in Sumter that recognizes the full potential of this facility and believes in investing in our quality of life."

In 2018, according to the release, the tennis center was awarded the United States Tennis Association's Outstanding Facility Award, which recognizes excellence in the construction and renovation of tennis facilities throughout the country.

"An absolutely exemplary event at the PTC," said Vickie Berrettini, who worked as a USTA Pro Events Chief Umpire at a recent event in Sumter. "We were able to secure an excellent mix of national, regional and new officials due in no small part to the excellent reputation of this facility and staff," she said.

Currently, the tennis center is one of the largest facilities in the region with 24 illuminated hard courts and state-of-the-art DecoTurf surface, states the release. The facility is known for the consistent speed of play, true ball bounce, durability, low maintenance, vibrant long-lasting colors and overall customer value.

The facility hosts on average 15 tournaments and events annually, boosting the local economy by more than $18 million each year.

"We are bringing all segments of the tennis industry to Sumter," Wild said. "Our goal is to continue the excellent reputation the PTC has earned internationally, while keeping our focus on growing the love for tennis in our youth and those who are young at heart.''

For more information on Palmetto Tennis Center, visit www.sumtertennis.com or call (803) 774-1651.