Full Breakdown
Crotona Park Courts Revitalized to Expand Free Tennis Access in the Bronx
8/27/2026, 1:38:30 AM
Core Event: Renovated Courts Open in Crotona Park
Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and New York Junior Tennis & Learning (NYJTL) announced the completion of a three-week resurfacing project that transformed ten public tennis courts at Crotona Park into professional-grade facilities. The courts, the only illuminated public courts in the Bronx, will host NYJTL programs such as the Mayor Dinkins Cup, the nation’s largest free junior interscholastic tennis competition.
Background & Context
NYJTL, a 55-year-old nonprofit, received a $500,000 grant from the USTA Foundation and equipment sponsor Yonex under the Community Impact Hub initiative. Half of the grant was allocated to the Crotona Park renovation, with additional support from the USTA Foundation’s Young Professional Initiative. The project was carried out through NYC Parks’ Adopt-a-Park program, which enables private organizations to fund park improvements.
Data & Statistics
- Courts renovated: 10
- Grant amount: $500,000 (NYJTL allocated $250,000 to the courts)
- Lighting: only Bronx public courts with night-play capability
- Annual participants in the Mayor Dinkins Cup: >800 youth
Official Statements & Responses
NYC Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura highlighted the importance of safe, welcoming facilities and thanked NYJTL, the USTA Foundation, and Yonex. NYJTL CEO Udai Tambar noted that the project expands tennis access in the 15th Congressional District.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Crotona Park courts are ready to host the fiercest matches as tennis season peaks in New York City,” — Mayor Mamdani
- “ “All New Yorkers deserve access to high-quality, safe and welcoming recreation spaces in their communities, just like these refurbished courts in Crotona Park.” — NYC Parks Commissioner Tricia
- “Sports access is the founding principle of NYJTL, which for 55 years has developed the character of young people through tennis and education,” — NYJTL CEO
- “ “The Community Impact Hub Initiative builds on the USTA Foundation’s efforts to transform the lives of young people by expanding access to school and family play opportunities, coach training and investment in courts.” — USTA Foundation CEO Ginny
Why It Matters
The refurbishment addresses a surge in demand for public tennis courts, giving Bronx youth a venue to develop athletic skills, discipline, and potential scholarship pathways. Paired with free junior competitions and affordable U.S. Open tickets, the city aims to broaden exposure to elite tennis and encourage participation.
On-the-Ground Perspective
Bronx Community Board 3 District Manager Etta Ritter praised the project as a tangible example of public-private partnership delivering high-impact community amenities.
What's Next
City officials will continue to promote discounted U.S. Open tickets during the tournament and plan to use the renovated courts for additional NYJTL events and youth outreach in the coming months.
