7 Shocking Changes At The Mt. Lebanon Tennis Center (Now Racket Center) You Need To Know For 2025
The Mt. Lebanon Tennis Center, a long-standing fixture in the Pittsburgh tennis community, is undergoing a dramatic transformation in 2025. This isn't just a minor facelift; the facility has been officially rebranded as the Mt. Lebanon Racket Center and is implementing major capital improvements and programming shifts that will fundamentally change the player experience. As of the current date, December 23, 2025, players need to be aware of the shift in focus, the integration of new sports, and the multi-million dollar upgrades that are set to redefine the future of racket sports in Mt. Lebanon Park.
The changes are part of a broader municipal effort to modernize recreational offerings, driven by a new 2025 bond issuance dedicated to facility upgrades. From a reduction in the number of traditional tennis courts to the introduction of dedicated pickleball facilities, here are the seven most critical updates you need to know before planning your next game.
The New Era: Mt. Lebanon Racket Center Profile & Facility Overview
The facility, now known as the Mt. Lebanon Racket Center, has a rich history as one of the premier tennis destinations in the greater Pittsburgh area. Located within the sprawling Mt. Lebanon Park, it serves a wide community of racket sports enthusiasts.
- Official Name: Mt. Lebanon Racket Center (formerly Mt. Lebanon Tennis Center)
- Location: 900 Cedar Blvd, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15228
- Current Court Count: 15 Har-Tru (Fast-Dry Clay) Tennis Courts
- Lighted Courts: 8 courts are equipped with updated lighting for evening play.
- Winter Facilities: 6 courts are typically covered by a seasonal "bubble" for year-round indoor play.
- Management: The facility is managed year-round by the Mt. Lebanon Recreation Department.
- Operating Hours (Racket Center): Sunday–Thursday: 8 am to 9 pm; Friday–Saturday: 8 am to 7 pm.
- Other Amenities: Platform tennis courts are also available, catering to the region's growing paddle tennis community.
The 7 Shocking Changes and Facility Upgrades for 2025
The capital improvement program and operational shifts are transforming the center from a purely tennis-focused venue into a comprehensive racket sports complex. These updates are essential reading for anyone looking to play in the coming season.
1. The Official Rebranding to "Racket Center"
The most immediate change is the name itself. The shift from "Tennis Center" to "Racket Center" is more than just a marketing move; it reflects the facility's new mission to embrace multiple racket sports. This new identity is a clear signal that the center is diversifying its offerings beyond traditional tennis, specifically to accommodate the explosion of pickleball and the established platform tennis leagues.
2. The Rise of Pickleball: New Dedicated Courts
The biggest news for the facility's future is the planned introduction of dedicated pickleball courts. As part of the 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program, the Mt. Lebanon Racket Center is moving forward with the construction of several new courts. By 2026, the plan is to have six dedicated pickleball courts, making the center a major hub for the sport in the Pittsburgh area. This move is a direct response to the sport's national popularity and local demand.
3. A Reduction in Total Tennis Courts
To make room for the new pickleball facilities, the overall number of tennis courts will be reduced. The current count of 15 Har-Tru courts is expected to drop to 13 tennis courts by 2026. While the center remains committed to tennis, players should be aware that court availability, especially during peak times, may be tighter as the facility balances the needs of two major sports.
4. Major Court Reconstruction and Lighting Updates
A significant portion of the 2025 capital bond issue is earmarked for direct court improvements. This includes the complete reconstruction of two existing tennis courts, ensuring a premium playing surface. Additionally, eight of the courts will receive updated lighting, improving visibility and extending evening play hours, which is a major benefit for adult tennis leagues and working players. These updates underscore the commitment to maintaining high-quality Har-Tru courts.
5. New Adult and Junior Programming Initiatives
The Racket Center is launching a suite of new, dynamic programs for the summer season and beyond. These new adult tennis clinics and junior tennis clinics are designed to be more accessible and skill-specific than ever before. New offerings include:
- Cardio Tennis: High-energy, fitness-focused group classes.
- Skill-Based Classes: Deep-dive sessions focusing on specific techniques and strategies.
- Drop-In Play: Flexible, non-commitment play opportunities for social interaction.
- New 2 Tennis: Beginner-focused clinics designed to introduce new players to the sport's fundamentals.
6. Platform Tennis Continues to Thrive
While pickleball is the new focus, the center continues to be a major hub for platform tennis, often referred to as paddle tennis. The existing platform tennis facilities are well-utilized, and the sport's dedicated community remains a vital part of the overall Racket Center ecosystem. The facility fields multiple teams in various leagues, cementing its role as a year-round racket sports destination.
7. Year-Round Management and Increased Accessibility
The Mt. Lebanon Recreation Department has solidified its role in managing the Racket Center—both the indoor (bubbled) and outdoor facilities—all year long. This unified management approach ensures consistent quality, streamlined court reservations, and a cohesive strategy for all programs, from youth tennis programs to competitive adult leagues. The availability of free LeboNet WiFi at the Recreation Center further enhances the experience for players and parents.
Securing Your Spot: Reservations and Membership
With the center's popularity and the temporary reduction in court availability during the transition, securing court time is more important than ever. The Racket Center operates on a reservation system, which is crucial for both the outdoor Har-Tru courts and the indoor winter bubble courts. Players are strongly encouraged to check the official Mt. Lebanon Parks and Recreation website frequently for the latest information on membership, court booking procedures, and the schedule for junior and adult clinics.
The facility’s long-standing reputation for maintaining high-quality clay courts makes it a highly sought-after venue. Whether you are a seasoned veteran of the local tennis leagues, a beginner looking for "New 2 Tennis" instruction, or a new enthusiast eager to try the emerging pickleball scene, the Mt. Lebanon Racket Center remains the premier destination for racket sports in the region. The 2025 upgrades promise to solidify its status for years to come.
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