Thomas Park has four new competition-grade tennis courts, giving Lafayette residents another reason to bring a racket to one of the city’s public recreation spaces.

Lafayette Consolidated Government celebrated the completed project on September 30. Its official announcement places the tennis work within more than $1.2 million of improvements at the park in less than two years.

What changed at the courts

The $588,000 tennis project replaced aging courts, upgraded fencing and added infrastructure for future lighting. The lighting component is preparation for a future addition; the announcement does not say new lights are already operating.

Funding came from City Sales Tax and a State Treasury Appropriation. Chase Marshall Architects designed the project, GeoSurfaces handled construction, and work began in October 2025.

Those details help separate the cost of the tennis project from the larger park investment. The $1.2 million figure covers multiple improvements, rather than just the four courts.

A broader investment in the park

The recent work also includes the skate park, a mural and recreation-center improvements. Together, the projects expand the ways residents can use the park for activity and gathering.

The city’s announcement emphasizes everyday recreation for residents across ages and skill levels. Competition-grade courts can serve experienced players while also offering a place for neighbors who want a casual match.

The announcement recognizes local advocates, including the Acadiana Tennis Association, alongside the designers, contractor and public officials involved in bringing the project forward.

Plan a visit

Start with LCG’s Thomas Park page for park information. Check with Parks, Arts, Recreation and Culture for current court access, programming or reservation questions before organizing a group.

LCG’s official website also connects residents with recreation services and updated public notices.

The ribbon cutting marks completion of the reported construction, but it does not establish a particular tournament schedule or promise that a court will be free at any chosen time.

For regular players and beginners alike, the news is straightforward: Thomas Park’s aging tennis facilities have been replaced, and the improvement is part of sustained attention to a familiar neighborhood park.