The city is marking the successful completion of Phase 1 expansion at the Manzano Mesa Pickleball Complex. The project involved resurfacing all 18 existing courts and adding 15 new ones, including a Championship Court. It also included the installation of lights, shade, and much-needed restrooms. However, due to supply issues, work on the restrooms is still ongoing but is expected to be completed soon.

This expansion aims to meet local demand for courts and enhance the city's ability to host major local and regional tournaments. The first significant event at the newly improved facility will be the second annual "Hang with the Pros Tournament," scheduled for May 23-27.

Mayor Tim Keller stated, "This expanded complex further solidifies Albuquerque’s spot as a top location for pickleball in the Southwest and a top destination for sports tourism. We continue to create ideal spaces for local and visiting families by investing in our parks and facilities."

State Senator Mimi Stewart noted that this expansion would significantly impact the city's southeast neighborhoods economically. She said, "This expansion is the result of great community support, and we look forward to seeing pickleball grow in Albuquerque as we invest more in our robust outdoor recreation opportunities."

The Parks and Recreation Department (PRD) and PRO Sports NM will co-sponsor the 2024 "Hang with the Pros" Pro-Am Pickleball Tournament. The tournament will feature four professional pickleball players: Kamryn Blackwood, Hunter & Yates Johnson, and Parris Todd. Three of these professionals are from New Mexico (Blackwood, Johnson brothers). In addition to amateur tournament play with significant prize money, there will be special clinics and demonstrations by these pros.

PRD Director Dave Simon announced that "the kitchens on our new courts are open." He added that Albuquerque was "cooking with pickleball."

Phase 1 of the Manzano Mesa expansion cost $3.5 million. The funding came from City GO Bonds, State Capital Outlay, and other city funds. The State Legislature invested $2.1 million, and the city contributed $1.4 million.

District 9 City Councilor Renee Grout expressed her gratitude to the pickleball community for their advocacy for this facility. She said, "I hope we’ve created something that they are proud of and will enjoy for many years to come."

The city is also planning a Phase 2 of the facility expansion, which will include a community building to support tournaments and facility management, six more pickleball courts (bringing the total to 39), and landscaping.

Currently, PRD offers 45 dedicated pickleball courts with an additional 56 courts lined for both tennis and pickleball. There are now pickleball courts in every quadrant of the city.