History
A Brief History of the Rome Tennis Center at Berry College
2008
Partners representing various organizations in Rome-Floyd County begin meeting to develop plans for a tennis center in support of tourism and economic development. Berry College agrees to donate to the project a parcel of 30 acres located near the proposed Armuchee Connector.
2009-2012
Conceptual plans are developed for the Tennis Center of Georgia at Berry College.
The Armuchee Connector opens in May 2012.
2013
The Tennis Center is submitted for approval to the Rome-Floyd County SPLOST Advisory Committee. The SPLOST Advisory Committee approves the project for $11.4 million.
The 2013 SPLOST referendum is approved by voters, including $11.4 million for Tennis Center.
Ground was broken in June 2015 for the Rome Tennis Center at Berry College.
2014-2015
Architects, land planners, builders, and tennis experts re-evaluate the proposed plan. The original site is adjusted (slightly to the north and east) to comply with environmental requirements and reduce costs of site preparation.
A new plan is developed over the course of a year that takes advantage of the natural topography of the site, enhancing views from all angles. A 3,846 sq. ft. clubhouse is planned for the highest point on the site, to include a porch which spans the clubhouse and overlooks the center courts.
The 30 acre site houses fifty-two USTA standard courts to include six NCAA regulation courts, three center courts for tournament and collegiate play, and one exhibition court. Twelve of the regular courts will be lined for 10&Under tennis to allow flexibility of usage in a cost efficient manner. All courts will have lighting and access to shade structures.
The design allows for the addition of 9 courts for a total of 60 courts. The plan also allocates space for the future build of 6 indoor courts after additional funding is acquired.
New South Construction is contracted to build the tennis center as designed within budget. If construction proceeds smoothly, the project contingency funds may allow for the construction of additional courts.
The facility is conveniently located on the Armuchee Connector at GA Highway 27, and center to Birmingham, Atlanta and Chattanooga.
2016
The facility was completed and opened in July of 2016.
2020
Six indoor courts were added and completed in March of 2020. The new 51,063 sq. ft. facility features 6 conditioned courts and seating for over 400 spectators. A ribbon cutting was held on August 10, 2020.