Prices Could Spike At The Prospect Park Tennis Center

KENSINGTON, BROOKLYN — Affordable tennis, anyone?

The Parks Department is accepting bids from organizations looking to take over the Prospect Park Tennis Center and local residents fear it will mean the end of affordable tennis in Kensington.

“We love the center and we’re concerned,” said Windsor Terrace resident Amelia Costigan. “This is one more thing we lose for middle class families.”

Costigan launched an online petition to support for the Prospect Park Alliance when she learned its contract expires in October, potentially ending their 15 years of managing the Parade Ground tennis courts.

News that the Parks Department would accept proposals from private entities sparked concerns that fees would go up — making it impossible for the avid tennis player to play the sport with her kids and 85-year-old-father, Costigan said.

"Tennis is not cheap," she said, "and there are few places where its affordable for middle class families."

Currently, the Prospect Park Alliance charges $30 for beginner tennis classes, about $50 for one hour of court time, about $95 for private lessons and $2,000 for annual membership.

But it's not only money that concerns Costigan, it's also the staff.

“It’s this diverse group of people,” said Costigan, referring to the tennis coaches who work at the center. “They’re musicians, they’re artists, and there’s no guarantee that they’ll keep their employment.”

Which is why Costigan’s petition, which has garnered more than 700 signatures in less than a week, asks Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver to reinstate the Prospect Park Alliance, insure prices stay reasonable and not allow current employees to lose their jobs.

A Parks Department spokeswoman confirmed the agency had submitted an RFP, noted that any future upticks in tennis court fees would require Parks approval, and promised to consider neighborhood input.

“Parks will take the community’s concerns and suggestions, including those related to pricing, into consideration during the evaluation process,” said the Parks Department in a statement.

A Prospect Park Alliance spokeswoman confirmed that the nonprofit had submitted a proposal.

But Costigan remains concerned about a growing trend in the borough that leans away from affordability and toward gentrification.

“We’re looking at big changes in Brooklyn," said Costigan. “This is one I really care about."

Photo by Kathleen Culliton