Local Pickleball is taking over the Cary Tennis Park. What to know about traffic, parking By Kristen Johnson August 30, 2026 5:22 PM Pickleball has become the fastest-growing sport in the United States with close to 50 million players nationwide. The Town of Cary The spotlight is on Cary this week as the Veolia Pickleball National Championships hit the courts at Cary Tennis Park. From Aug. 31 through Sept. 6, thousands of spectators are expected to flock to the tennis park at 2727 Louis Stephens Drive to watch top-ranked professional players compete in pickleball. Due to the increase in cars and traffic because of the championship, town officials are urging attendees and commuters to plan for changes along Louis Stephens Drive. Here’s what to know before you get on the road. Parking for spectators No on-site general parking: If you don’t have a pre-approved pass, don’t go to the venue. General spectator parking is not available at the main tennis park. Where to park: All general parking has been relocated to Phillips Farm at 6800 Good Hope Church Road. Free shuttle service: A complimentary shuttle will run continuously between the farm and the tennis park, picking up guests every 15 to 20 minutes throughout the tournament. According to the town, shuttles will begin about one hour before the first matches each day and continue until one hour after the final match concludes. Reserved and ADA access The main Cary Tennis Park lot and the nearby Green Hope Elementary School lot (2700 Louis Stephens Drive) are reserved for pre-approved vehicles. ADA parking : A limited number of ADA spaces are available on-site. Once they reach capacity, guests are asked to use the off-site lot at Phillips Farm and use the ADA-accessible shuttle. Uber and Lyft: Rideshare services have a designated drop-off and pick-up zone located at the park’s main entrance. What to bring, and expect traffic delays According to the championship officials, small bags are accepted and will be checked at the gate. Items like sunscreen, hats and personal cameras are also welcome. No coolers, outside alcohol or tripods are allowed. If you aren’t attending the tournament, drivers commuting near the park and along Louis Stephens Drive should expect delays and increased pedestrian activity. Times for the matches vary each day and more information can be found online at ppatour.com/events . Related Stories from Raleigh News & Observer Durham County Durham County votes ‘pause’ on data centers, but leaves a key door open August 25, 2026 8:43 AM
Curated by Taleb Kabbara · Source: www.newsobserver.com