July 18, 2025 – The reconstruction of the Leeper Park Tennis Courts begins Monday, July 21. The $1.8 million project includes the construction of a new post-tensioned concrete surface for 13 full-sized courts. Additional improvements include new net anchors, posts, nets, sidewalks and fencing. Work is expected to be completed by the end of September, weather permitting.
The project is funded by the City of South Bend, Visit South Bend Mishawaka and the South Bend Community Tennis Association. Once completed, the courts will be renamed the David Filer Tennis Center at Leeper Park in memory of David Filer, a tennis prodigy who died of brain cancer at the age of 16.
The improvements will expand opportunities for youth programming and position South Bend as a destination for higher-level tennis tournaments. These events are expected to attract visitors who will contribute to the local economy by staying in area hotels and dining at local restaurants.
A groundbreaking ceremony will be held in the coming weeks. More details will be released closer to the date.
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