In partnership with Related Companies, CityPickle will transform the iconic Wollman Rink into a year-round recreation hub, including 14 pickleball courts during the warmer times of the year
It’s official: pickleball is getting a home in Central Park for the next 20 years.
CityPickle, in partnership with Related Companies under the name Wollman Park Partners II (WPP II), won the New York City Parks request for proposal for Wollman Rink.
The deal is valued at over $100 million for the city, including a record cumulative minimum free offer of $91 million and a minimum capital investment of $10.9 million. The two companies will operate and maintain the rink over the next two decades, transforming it into 14 pickleball courts open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. during spring, summer and early fall.
“Wollman Rink is a cherished space in the heart of Central Park, and this next chapter ensures it remains a place where all New Yorkers — from every borough and every background — feel welcome,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa.
“We are thrilled to partner with Related to deliver on an even greater vision for Wollman Rink and continue bringing the most iconic pickleball offering in the country to New Yorkers of all ages and abilities,” said CityPickle co-founder Mary Cannon.
WPP II is planning for several upgrades to the facility, including:
Installation of a new, environmentally friendly ice-making system that meets EPA and Department of Environmental Conservation standards
Modernized mechanical infrastructure and stormwater management improvements
An upgraded skate rental inventory
ADA-compliant upgrades, such as an elevator to the Overlook
In its commitment to increase accessibility to the public space, WPP II will offer a $16 ice skating rate for New York City residents, which includes skate rentals, skating admission and a hot chocolate. And through the Culture Pass Program, a New York City family of four can skate for free once during each skating season. During pickleball season, a daily $5 Community Play will also be available.
“Skating at Wollman Rink is an iconic New York City experience that has endeared itself to residents, families and tourists for generations,” said Related Companies CEO Jeff T. Blau and president Bruce A. Beal, Jr., in a joint statement.
“But thanks to our partnership with CityPickle, it has become a year-round destination and vibrant place for people to come together to enjoy the Park,” the two executives added. “We are delighted to be able to continue as stewards of Wollman Rink and look forward to expanding access and the experiences available for generations to come.”
The WPP II proposal was selected after NYC Parks’ competitive RFP process to determine the highest-rated proposal. Its 20-year contract will begin in May 2027.
But this is not CityPickle’s first time occupying the iconic Wollman Rink. In 2023, the company debuted 14 pickleball courts, which stayed at the rink from April until October of that year. Now, pickleball players will have much longer than just a few months to compete in the popular paddleball sport.
“Pickleball has been a true sensation at Wollman Rink, drawing 180,000 players to Central Park over the past three years and turning the legendary rink into a year-round recreational destination,” said CityPickle co-founder Erica Desai.
