Spikes, Serves & Serenity: A Former Jefferson Park Church Gets New Life as Pickleball Courts — And a Wellness Studio Is Right Behind It

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Jefferson Park · June 7, 2026

Jefferson Park is doing what it does best — breathing new life into familiar spaces — and two exciting neighborhood transformations are giving residents even more reasons to love the Northwest Side this summer.

First, the pews are coming out. The former St. Cornelius Church at 5430 W. Foster Ave. is being converted into pickleball courts, bringing one of the country's fastest-growing sports right into the heart of Jefferson Park. It's the kind of bold, community-minded reimagining that turns a vacant landmark into a neighborhood gathering place — and pickleball fans of all skill levels are already buzzing about the new courts coming to their backyard.

Meanwhile, on the west end of Lawrence Avenue, a brand-new wellness studio called Sol Space is bringing fresh energy to the corridor. The Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce has welcomed Sol Space as the latest addition to the neighborhood's growing small business scene, noting its blend of community connection and mind-body wellness offerings for all ages. Whether you're looking to perfect your backhand or find your zen, Jefferson Park is clearly serving it all up this June. Stop by the Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce's General Monthly Meeting on Thursday, June 11 at the Copernicus Center (5214 W. Lawrence Ave.) to stay in the loop on all the exciting changes coming to the neighborhood!

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