BOSTON— Kaplan Construction has begun Phases 3 and 4 of a major expansion at the Sportsmen’s Tennis & Enrichment Center, marking the next step in a long-term effort to transform the historic Dorchester campus.
The latest work builds on the successful completion of the first two phases in 2024 and will introduce significant upgrades, including an 8,300-square-foot addition designed to expand programming and improve the overall visitor experience.
“After successfully completing the first two phases of Sportsmen’s capital improvements plan, we’re thrilled to continue our partnership,” said Nathan Peck. “These next phases further integrate athletics, education, and community by creating welcoming, functional spaces that advance Sportsmen’s mission.”
New Facilities and Cultural Exhibits
Phase 3 will focus on physically unifying the campus by constructing a new connector building between the facility’s three existing court structures. The addition will include locker rooms, a gym, and social gathering spaces for members and youth participants.
A key feature of the new space will be a permanent “Breaking the Barriers” exhibit highlighting the history of Black tennis in the United States, along with a second exhibit honoring tennis legend Billie Jean King and her advocacy for equal pay in women’s sports.
The phase will also add two outdoor tennis courts and expanded recreational space, increasing capacity for summer camps and community programming.
Renovations to Enhance Community Use
Phase 4 will focus on reconfiguring and expanding existing interior spaces. Plans include relocating the lobby to create a new ground-level welcome center and converting former office areas into a teaching kitchen, multipurpose community rooms, and a viewing gallery. Additional upgrades include a new pro shop and expanded office space for staff.
Construction will be carefully coordinated to allow the facility to remain operational throughout the project, ensuring continued access for athletes, staff, and youth education participants.
“Sportsmen’s has transformed dramatically in recent years, and this phase represents our most meaningful investment yet,” said Toni Wiley. “Kaplan’s familiarity with our campus brings invaluable continuity, allowing us to prioritize safety while keeping our mission at the center of every decision.”
A Historic Institution Expands
Founded in 1961, Sportsmen’s Tennis & Enrichment Center is recognized as the first indoor nonprofit tennis club in the United States built by and for the African American community. The organization combines tennis training with academic support, wellness programming, and youth development initiatives.
The full expansion project carries a $20 million goal, with $17.7 million already secured through donors and partners, including support from the New Balance Foundation.
Kaplan Construction previously completed a 24,000-square-foot indoor tennis facility with four courts, along with renovations to enrichment spaces and infrastructure upgrades—all while the center remained active.
The current phase brings together a broad project team, including Utile as architect, RSE Associates, and BLW Engineers, among others.
