BY SERGEI KLEBNIKOV | The East River tennis courts are in lamentable condition,” writes Joe Hanania, a Grand St. resident, at the start of his petition to resurface the courts. Started several years ago, the petition now has 970 signatures combined on both its written and online copies. It goes on to describe the courts’ bad condition, and asks the Parks Department for help.
Despite renovations to the rest of the East River Park, its tennis courts have been neglected, Hanania asserts. The petition cites several glaring problems: Many of the courts have long cracks in their surface, are easily susceptible to flooding and have no lights at night. They look like “something out of the Third World,” according to Hanania, who frequently uses the courts.
“These are possibly the worst courts in all of Manhattan,” he declared. “Others are substantially better.”
Frustration among locals who use the court is understandable, considering there have been talks of resurfacing for almost three years now. In addition, the courts require a hefty $200 annual pass to use, with a $15 fee for guests.
Eventually, Hanania received word from Parks, which wanted to help with the project but lacked the funds. Working with Steve Simon, chief of staff for Parks’ Manhattan office, Hanania reached out to Councilmember Rosie Mendez, since the project funds will have to come out of the City Council budget. Mendez’s office agreed to help support the petition.
“We have been hearing about this issue for years,” said Vanessa Diaz, Mendez’s chief of staff. Diaz said, if there is more capital funding available, the project can be prioritized. However, the councilmember’s office is “still looking for support,” as budget negotiations between the City Council and the mayor continue. Yet, even if there are budget cuts, Mendez is “committed to supporting the resurfacing of the East River tennis courts,” Diaz said.
The project has gained ground, with Parks installing new nets on the courts several months ago. Improved conditions give the petition’s supporters hope.
“We are building up momentum,” Hanania said. “We are hoping to keep the pressure up.”
