PORTLAND, Ore. — One of America's fastest-growing sports, pickleball, is coming to the Lloyd Center Mall. And the court noise shouldn't be a concern for neighbors, as Jumbo's Pickleball is taking over the former Regal Cinemas on the third floor, next to the food court.
It'll be Jumbo's second location in the Portland area, with the first in Beaverton. The Lloyd Center location will have eight indoor courts and opportunities to join in on pre-programmed hosted games, open play, league play, lessons and more.
“Lloyd Center has always been a popular gathering place for the community. It’s great to have Jumbo’s Pickleball help us continue the tradition of bringing people together at the mall,” said Tom Kilbane of Urban Renaissance Group, co-owner of the mall.
The pickleball center is set to open in October. It will have a lounge with snacks and drinks as well as a merchandise shop with a demo court to test equipment.
“The Lloyd Center team has been great to work with. We all love Portland and want to bring something positive to the property. Pickleball as a sport is so welcoming and community driven, it was a great fit,” said Roshan Fernando, co-owner of Jumbo’s Pickleball. “Pickleball is easy to learn and a great community builder. We’re very excited to be expanding indoor pickleball in Portland.”
Tenancy within the Lloyd Center Mall has taken a serious dip in the last few years, especially after the last remaining department store, Macy's, exited the mall in 2021.
In fact, there is a grand plan in the works to transform the 1960s-era mall property into a vibrant neighborhood, which could lead to the demolition of the mall. But, in the meantime the mall is open for business.
And pickleball isn't the only potential new member in store for the mall's property. A new entertainment venue has been proposed to replace the former Nordstrom building. The two-story concert hall would have a seating capacity between 2,000 to 4,200 people.
