Project Update: Land, Design, and What Comes Next
We’re advancing on the land purchase and finalizing design. Permits are the next step—and once approved, construction begins.
I want to give everyone an update on where things stand.
We are officially moving forward with the land purchase. The property is 4.8 manzanas which is just about 10 acres. Right now it’s still a working farm field (see photo). We’re in the middle of the closing process, which should complete in April '26.
To break ground, we need two things:
- A building permit, and
- A land use certificate confirming we can operate a commercial sports facility.
The design refresh is underway. We have a 16-page requirements document that goes deep into the details on everything from layout and flow to environmental factors adapted for this property. Our goal is to create a premium player experience and exotic atmosphere.
On timing: best case, permits take a couple of months. Worst case, I’m being told 6–8 months. We’ll push it as efficiently as possible, but we’re planning with that reality in mind. If we can break ground in August, there's a solid chance we are opening in late CY Q1 '27.
Concept Overview (Early Mock-Up)
What you’re seeing in the this following image is a very rough, not-to-scale concept:
Here’s how it’s shaping up:
- The new coastal highway runs near the property
- Entry leads into a dedicated parking area with drop-off access
- Front building includes a pro shop and reception
- Locker rooms are integrated into that structure
- From there, you walk straight into the facility
At the center, we’re designing an open-air (or potentially covered) pavilion that will feel like the heartbeat of the property. From that hub:
- Championship court
- Gym
- Café
- Kids' play areas
- Walkways connecting to additional courts, including covered courts.
Where We’re Going Deep
We do not intend to cut corners.
We’re paying close attention to:
- Water drainage and runoff
- Wind direction and court orientation
- Sun positioning and player sight lines
- Lighting standards (targeting 70–75 foot-candles minimum)
- Fencing, wind screens, and visual clarity
- Vegetation placement to avoid debris on courts
Every court will be individually fenced. Court foundations will be post-tension concrete with high-end surfaces (we haven't finalized court colors yet and we are open to suggestions).
Covered courts will likely use a steel lattice structure with PVC canvas covering. The pickleball community here desperately wants to train during days of rain or intense sunshine. And if you travel here to train, compete, or get coaching we believe that the covered courts are essential infrastructure to deliver a great player experience. In the covered court area, we are planning a central walkway wide enough for seating, movement, and viewing.
Bottom Line
2026 is the year of execution for Palmera.
Land acquisition is in motion. Design is being formalized. Permitting is the next hurdle. Once that clears, we’re ready to build.
More to come soon.
Let's Connect
