Greenville Welcomes PKL Park With Open Arms!
Exciting news is buzzing through the streets of Greenville as the new PKL Park officially opened its doors on November 22! This 3.7-acre wonderland, nestled right beside the ever-popular Unity Park, is making waves with a colossal investment of $2.2 million. It’s all thanks to local champions Nick Gilley and John Sharkey, who envisioned a vibrant community space where everyone can get in on the action.
A Slice of Fun for Everyone
When you step into PKL Park, you’ll notice its lively vibe immediately. The park boasts a stunning array of features, including eight pickleball courts, a 20-foot TV wall, a stage for performances, and around 10,000 square feet of lush green space to relax or play. And let’s not skip the unique touches—a historic gem, the former Mark V Recording Studio building, now serves as the heart of the park.
On inaugural day, Councilmember Lillian Brock Flemming graced the venue, sharing her nostalgic memories of playing around the studio “knee-high to a bug.” She expressed her excitement by stating, “There’s something for everybody to be here. It’s just the community coming together.” It seems this park was designed with family fun in mind, bridging bonds and creating memories in a delightful atmosphere.
Delicious Eats Await!
But wait, there’s more to PKL Park than just sports and open space! Guests can also savor a bite at two unique eateries on-site: Toastified and Coop’s Crazy Chicken. The latter is the brainchild of David and Tessa Wolfgram, a father-daughter duo who are set to tantalize taste buds in this vibrant hub. Imagine enjoying some scrumptious bites while taking a breather from the action-packed day!
The main eatery, aptly named The Kitchen, is a nod to the historic recording studio that once thrived here. Although the studio is now defunct, it played a significant role in the Southernside neighborhood since 1961, making memories with renowned artists like Moses Dillard and Hank Garland. Visitors can enjoy the nostalgic ambiance as they marvel at murals that spotlight significant moments from the area’s past, along with portraits of artists who once stepped into the iconic studio.
Planning and Dedication
The creation of PKL Park didn’t come without its challenges! After going before the city’s Design Review Board in October 2023, construction kicked off in April 2024. Originally set for an October 20 opening, the date was pushed back due to Hurricane Helene but turned out perfectly on November 22. Now ready and raring to go, the park is poised to become a beloved spot for families and friends alike!
For those interested in the rich history of the Mark V Recording Studio, there’s something special for you. The Greenville Music Preservation has produced a podcast unveiling the studio’s intriguing past, accessible via QR codes placed throughout the park. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn more while enjoying a day filled with activity and camaraderie!
Join the Fun at PKL Park!
If you’re in the Greenville area, make sure to stop by PKL Park at 78 Mayberry St. Whether you’re an aspiring pickleball player, a foodie in search of new flavors, or simply someone looking to spend quality time with loved ones, this new addition has something for everyone. As Sharkey and Gilley said, “We’re hoping to unify everything people like under one roof.” With the opening of PKL Park, it seems they’ve done just that!
So rally your friends, grab the family, and head over to experience what has quickly become the beating heart of downtown Greenville. It’s time to enjoy the fun and connection that PKL Park brings to the community!
