The Park Board will consider applying for Hennepin County youth sports grants to help close the gap this summer.

For now, a grassy field remains in place of the demolished asphalt courts as park staff work on designing a bike skills course nearby.

“Since I ran for office, I’ve been hearing from everyone how sad they are about the condition of the tennis courts on Minnehaha Creek,” said Park Board Commissioner Steffanie Musich at the time that the board advanced its partnership with Minneapolis Community Clay Courts. “So seeing that we’re moving forward with a way to rehabilitate those, since we are unable to utilize our regional park monies for that type of activity, it’s very exciting to see that this is happening.”

Park staff said they are still searching for good locations in north and northeast Minneapolis to spread clay facilities more equitably across the city.

“When I’ve played across the country, you have to get to a private club, or you have to be part of a membership somewhere, to play on a clay court,” said Park Superintendent Al Bangoura. “As a tennis player, being able to walk on a public court free, and have no barriers, is just stunning, and an incredible thing.”