News Summary
Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser proposed a $10 million pickleball facility in Shreveport, highlighting its potential to boost tourism and local economy. The facility would include 19 courts adhering to USA Pickleball League standards, and its construction aims to attract visitors and enhance patronage of local businesses. While officials support the project for its economic benefits, critics question its budget and relevance for underserved youth. A vote on the proposal is expected next month.
Shreveport, Louisiana — Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser advocated for a proposed $10 million pickleball facility during his visit to Shreveport on August 12, 2025. Speaking at the North Shreveport Business Association monthly luncheon and the Caddo Republican Social, Nungesser expressed his belief that the facility would significantly enhance tourism and provide economic benefits to the city.
The planned facility would feature 19 pickleball courts built to the quality standards set by the USA Pickleball League. Nungesser projected that tourism revenue generated from the facility would not only offset its construction cost but also lead to increased patronage of local hotels and businesses. This projection is based on the success of a similar sports facility in Ruston, which positively impacted tourism in that area.
Local officials were present during Nungesser’s address, including Caddo Parish Mayor Tom Arceneaux and representatives from the police and fire departments. The proposed facility is slated to be constructed in southeast Shreveport, specifically near the Lash Family YMCA, which has expressed interest in managing the facility if it is built. Nungesser emphasized that the facility could host various tournaments and events, drawing visitors from outside the region, thereby boosting local economic activities.
A vote regarding the pickleball court proposal is expected to occur next month. Caddo Parish Parks and Recreation Director Patrick Wesley indicated that there is growing demand for dedicated pickleball courts in the area. The Caddo Commission has decided to return the proposal to the Economic Development Committee for further consideration, with plans to hold another discussion in August.
However, the proposal is not without its critics. Opponents of the pickleball facility challenge its $10 million budget, questioning its relevance for youth, particularly in underserved communities. They argue that the funds could be better allocated to initiatives that serve a broader demographic of the local population. On the other hand, proponents maintain that the facility would generate substantial economic benefits through an increase in hotel stays, restaurant visits, and local business patronage.
If the project moves forward as planned, the tentative timeline indicates that land acquisition and design could commence as early as this year, with construction potentially completed by 2027. The continued dialogue among community leaders, local officials, and residents will play a crucial role in shaping the future of this proposed facility.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bossier City Introduces New Pickleball Facility at Louisiana Boardwalk
Bossier City Welcomes New Indoor Pickleball Facility
New Indoor Pickleball Complex Opens in Shreveport-Bossier
Additional Resources
- KSLA News: Lt. Gov. Nungesser Advocates for Pickleball Facility
- Wikipedia: Tourism
- KTAL News: Nungesser on Proposed Pickleball Complex
- Google Search: Pickleball Facilities
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate: Caddo Parish Pickleball News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pickleball
- KTBS: Caddo Parish Pickleball Facility Proposal
- Google News: Shreveport Pickleball
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
