photos via NPS
“Dear PoPville,
Do you know what the scoop is on the fate of the Rock Creek Tennis Center? I was playing there and learned that the management contract expired on Saturday 2/28 with no new contract in sight. This means that as of Sunday, March 1, all classes and clinics are canceled; coaches and contractors lose their jobs; and court access is suspended. At least that’s what the staff told me. They know nothing about what happens next. Do you?”
5220 16th Street, NW
Thanks to T. for sending from the National Park Service:
“National Park Service Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Rock Creek Tennis Center
The National Park Service (NPS) is issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP) for a lease of the Rock Creek Tennis Center located within the Rock Creek National Park. The NPS is seeeking an operator that will continue to operate the Tennis Center in a manner that will provide for recreational activites within the leased area. Details of the
The area being considered for lease is approximately 38.9 acres and consists of a 7,500-seat tennis stadium, 10 outdoor hard surface courts, 15 outdoor clay courts, a snack bar and pro shop, an office area, recreation fields, picnic areas, and a parking lot that can accomodate 856 vehicles. (more…)
Thanks to Nikhita for sharing this beautiful shot: “That sunset on Sunday made an appearance during the Citi open finals.”
*Friends of the Sunset Society is made possible by readers like you! As always, you can submit your spectacular sunsets to us at [email protected] Thanks!
photo by Erin
From an email:
“Venus Williams, a seven-time Grand Slam singles champion and four-time Olympic gold medalist, will compete in the 2025 Mubadala Citi DC Open. The American tennis icon has accepted a main draw wild card into the event. The tournament will take place July 19 to 27 at the William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center in Rock Creek Park, Washington, DC. (more…)
photo by Erin
“Dear PoPville,
In light of the fantastic weather, I’m seeking information about the status of Garfield Park and East Potomac Tennis Courts. Does anyone have information about the net removal and extended closure of the courts at Garfield? Also curious if the DC tennis universe has the scoop on when East Potomac will reopen?”
“Dear PoPville,
The Rock Creek Tennis bubble (run by Guest Services) has been having its issues this year with the heat getting knocked out for several weeks and then the bubble came down because of snow. It’s operational now but I wonder how safe it is. Came across the jerry-rigged system for what I assume is for heat. One cigarette flicked and who the hell knows? Anyone know who certifies a subcontractor and their work on NPS land?”
UPDATE: “The designated propane storage area is a temporary setup that complies with safety regulations. Storing propane indoors is not permitted, which is why it has been placed outside, as indicated by the posted warning signs and fencing around the area. (more…)
photo by Erin
From an email:
“We are excited to share that East Potomac Tennis Center will soon be undergoing significant improvements to expand our offerings for all racquet sports enthusiasts. (more…)
photo by Erin
Thanks to Sandy for passing on from the National Park Service:
“Effective October 1, the East Potomac Tennis Center is closed as part of a transition between operators. The center will remain closed until at least June 2025 as the new operator completes improvements to the facilities. (more…)
photo by DCbmyers
“Dear PoPville,
Heard that East Potomac tennis center is closing on October 1st after 30 years due to issues with the landlord or lease? Any intel?”
East Potomac Tennis Center’s website says:
“Dear East Potomac Tennis Center Patrons,
As you may be aware, NPS is in negotiations with East Potomac Raquet Sports for a long-term lease of the East Potomac Tennis Center. (more…)
photo by Erin
“Dear PoPville,
I’ve Googled extensively but haven’t been able to find a list of bars in DC that are showing US Open Tennis. We ventured to Millie’s over the weekend and the vibe was great, but it wasn’t Metro friendly and took us an hour to get there. Hoping someone has a recommendation for a Metro friendly bar airing the US Open…that also hopefully has decent wine, bar food and like minded tennis fans.” (more…)