LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — On a bright Saturday afternoon, the familiar rhythm of tennis balls echoes through Chickasaw Park, home of the West Louisville Tennis Club.
Players glide across the city’s only free clay courts, a rare treasure nestled within one of Louisville’s historic Olmsted Parks. The courts are lively, loved, and lived-in—symbols of a community with deep roots and deeper dedication.
This beloved green space is about to get a transformational boost.
A life-changing gift
During a recent announcement, Mary Grissom of the Olmsted Parks Conservancy shared news that brought cheers from the crowd:
“An anonymous Louisvillian who loves the parks has made a gift of $5 million dollars, $5 million.”
The donation, one of the largest in the park’s history, will fund a full and complete restoration of Chickasaw Park, a project many say is long overdue.
Among those guiding the effort is Dr. Aretha Fuqua, president of the West Louisville Tennis Club and a member of the park’s restoration steering committee.
“I got my hand in the cookie jar,” she said jokingly.
As she surveys the park on Saturday, she points out aging features, like the century-old spray pad.
“We’ve suffered from deferred maintenance in this community for at least a hundred years,” Fuqua said. “Oh, I’d like to see just upgraded amenities.”
One of the park’s most significant structures, the Chickasaw Lodge, sits locked and timeworn — part of its roof covered by a tarp. But behind that fading façade is a spectacular view.
“It’s right in front of the Ohio River,” Fuqua said with a sweep of her hand. “My God, can we have some patio area?”
To her, the timing feels right.
“I just want to say thank you to the Lord. You know, I think it's by His grace that we're receiving these blessings. And I don't ever want to forget that. That's probably something that'll never make the news. But in my heart, I believe that's where our blessings come from. It's our time.”
A park with a lasting legacy
For many in West Louisville, these courts are more than nets and lines — they are legacy.
Few embody that history more than Ron Vaughn, a lifelong player who remembers standing beside the courts, falling in love with the sport.
Today, a permanent display near the courts honors Ron and his father, both fixtures in the park’s tennis heritage.
“I think it’s wonderful,” Vaughn said. “I think it’s a tribute to what we have established here.”
His father passed down not just a racket, but a tradition.
“This here is a lifeline for a generation that has been established in great people, I mean, great people," Vaughn said.
What’s next for the park? Design planning and community meetings will take time to be scheduled, but excitement is already building.
Full restoration work at Chickasaw Park is expected to begin in 2026, marking the start of a new era for one of Louisville’s most cherished neighborhood parks.
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