NYC Council Votes for USTA National Tennis Center Upgrade

The New York City Council has voted in an overwhelming margin of 47-1 to improve the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Corona, NY. The plan will enable the USTA to replace and renovate the infrastructure and facilities that are aging to continue to make it a world class experience, especially for the yearly arrival of the US Open Tennis Championships.

“We are very pleased that the City Council passed the legislation,” said David A. Haggerty, Chairman, CEO and President of the USTA. “The updates and improvements to the Tennis Center will enhance the usage of the tennis center for local residents, visitors and professional and recreational tennis players while also preserving the US Open Tennis Championships as a world-renowned event.”

“This deal was a long time coming and I can say with confidence that we will all benefit from this expansion,” said Council Member Julissa Ferreras, who represents Corona and East Elmhurst. “I am very proud that my community got engaged and demanded a voice in this process. I look forward to working with the USTA to improve the park for everyone.”

The strategic vision for the plan was unveiled last year and will include a new Louis Armstrong Stadium and a new Grandstand that will be shifted from the northeast corner to the southwest corner of the grounds which in turn will make it easier for fans to maneuver through the area. The plan will also have a new pedestrian walkway that will connect the Grandstand to Court 17. The move will require 0.68 acres of more space.

“We are confident that in partnership with the local Queens communities and elected officials, we will ensure a better Flushing Meadows Corona Park and National Tennis Center,” said Gordon Smith, Executive Director and COO of the USTA.