Hallelujah for Pickleball! Former Jefferson Park Church to Swap Pews for Courts at 5430 W. Foster Ave.

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Jefferson Park · March 15, 2026

Jefferson Park is getting a seriously fun new community destination — and it's coming from the most unexpected of places. A former church building in the neighborhood is being transformed into pickleball courts, bringing one of America's fastest-growing recreational sports to the Northwest Side in a truly one-of-a-kind setting.

At the former St. Cornelius Church at 5430 W. Foster Ave., rows of pews will soon be replaced with pickleball courts, according to CBS News Chicago. It's the kind of adaptive reuse that breathes new life into a beloved old building while giving neighbors a brand-new reason to gather — and get moving. Pickleball has exploded in popularity across Chicago in recent years, and Jefferson Park is now poised to become a go-to destination for players of all ages and skill levels right in their own backyard.

The conversion adds to an already exciting stretch of community momentum on the Northwest Side, where historic buildings are finding bold second lives. Whether you're a seasoned pickleball pro or a total newcomer just curious about all the buzz, keep an eye on 5430 W. Foster Ave. — your next favorite Jefferson Park hangout may be just a serve away. Follow local updates through Nadig Newspapers and the Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce for opening details!

Sources:
1. https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/tag/jefferson-park/