What is the signup sheet?
The signup sheet is a schedule, posted every morning, that lets permit holders reserve a court any time between 8am and 8pm that day. Read more about the signup sheet.
Why isn’t there an online signup system for Fort Greene Park?
Creating this system is logistically challenging, and we currently do not have the time or resources to dedicate to it. Online signups would require approval from and integration with the NYC Parks online signup system that exists for certain facilities that have a public/private partnership—we cannot create our own online signup system.
At the moment, the FGTA board is fully occupied with other projects in Fort Greene (running events, strategizing on partnerships, recycling thousands of tennis balls each season, etc.) There is also a concern that having online signups would make the courts less accessible to the local community, due to more players coming from other parts of the city and the barrier of internet access. Online signups may become a more viable option in the future but, for now, FGTA is not able to make this available.
What is the NYC Parks Department tennis permit?
NYC Parks requires players to purchase permits for access to Parks courts. Read more about permits.
Can I play at the courts before 8am or after 8pm (the hours not covered by the signup sheet)?
Yes you can. The courts are first-come-first-serve before 8am and after 8pm. As always, play is limited to an hour of singles or two hours of doubles if other players are waiting.
Can I play in the early morning (before 8am) and also hold my spot on line for the signup sheet?
No. You have to be physically in line to sign up for a court. If you are on a court playing tennis, you are not in line.
Can I play for more than an hour before 8am?
If other players are waiting for a court, please be courteous and limit your playing time to one hour for singles, two hours for doubles.
Could Fort Greene Park someday have lights at the tennis courts?
Installing lights at the courts presents multiple challenges:
Regulatory hurdles: Fort Greene Park is a city park with landmark status, and any additions—especially lighting—require approvals from multiple agencies (e.g., NYC Parks, Landmarks Preservation Commission).
Infrastructure limitations: The area lacks existing electrical infrastructure to support high-intensity athletic lighting.
Community concerns: Nearby residents and park stakeholders have raised concerns about light pollution, increased noise, and late-night park use.
FGTA is continuing to explore options and engage in conversations with local officials and stakeholders to evaluate the feasibility of responsibly adding lights.
Why is FGTA prioritizing court resurfacing?
Resurfacing the courts is our top priority because worn down courts can impact player safety and quality of play. Over time, cracks, bumps, and faded lines create hazards and limit the playability of the courts. A proper resurfacing will restore the integrity of the playing surface, extend the life of the courts, and ensure they remain accessible and enjoyable to use.
Who are the stakeholders involved in the park and neighborhood?
The courts exist within a vibrant ecosystem of community interests. Key stakeholders include:
NYC Parks Department: Oversees the operation and maintenance of all city parks, including capital improvements and public access.
Fort Greene Park Conservancy: A nonprofit partner helping to preserve the historical and recreational aspects of the park.
Local elected officials: City Council, Community Board 2, and the Borough President’s Office all have a voice in park planning and funding.
Neighborhood residents and park users: Community feedback shapes what kinds of activities and improvements are supported.
Fort Greene Tennis Association members and volunteers: FGTA represents a diverse and active group of players who rely on well-maintained public courts.
How can I find other places to play tennis in NYC?
Using our handy court map.
Does FGTA offer lessons or clinics?
Currently, no. But we have a list of some local options for lessons and clinics.
Does FGTA offer programming for kids?
No, but check out the folks at Totally Tennis, who offer clinics for kids on the Edmunds Playground nearby.
How does FGTA support the courts?
FGTA is an entirely volunteer-run organization that works with the Parks Department and other partners to help grow and sustain tennis in Brooklyn. Our responsibilities include:
Organizing tournaments and other community events at the courts.
Fundraising and securing grants to pay for the cost of court maintenance and upgrades.
Advocating for tennis courts and parks in New York.
Fostering equity and access by welcoming players of all ages and levels.
Resurfacing requires both advocacy and patience. FGTA continuously works behind the scenes to push for more resources and long-term sustainability of tennis in Fort Greene Park.
What does it mean to be “on the board” of FGTA?
Board members are the core of FGTA’s operations and volunteer their time for two year terms. Elections are held at the end of each year for the upcoming year.
There are also plenty of ways to contribute as a volunteer who isn’t a board member. If you’d like to learn more (or, even better, have some free time and want to help out), please reach out to tennis@fortgreenetennis.org!