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Facility Spotlight: Gotham Pickleball, NYC's First Autonomous Pickleball Facility

Writer's picture: westshawwestshaw

Updated: Oct 29, 2024

At Johns Design & Consulting (JDC), we're helping our clients hit winners left and right when it comes to innovation in the pickleball industry. Our latest project, Gotham Pickleball, is transforming the NYC pickleball scene as the city’s first fully autonomous facility. We've partnered with Gotham Pickleball owner, David Goldberg, to bring this cutting-edge concept to life. 


But what does an 'autonomous' facility really mean for players, and why is it a game-changer?"


The Rise Of Autonomous Pickleball Facilities


Autonomous pickleball facilities–those that operate independently with minimal staff and advanced technology–are the latest trend sweeping the industry, and JDC is at the forefront of this revolution. 


These automated facilities offer players 24/7 access, streamlined operations, and a tech-savvy approach to the sport we all love.


The concept of autonomous facilities isn't entirely new. It started with companies like PingPod in the table tennis world, and now it's making waves in pickleball. The idea is simple yet transformative: provide players with around-the-clock access to top-notch courts, regardless of staff availability.


Here's why autonomous facilities are becoming the next big thing in pickleball:


  1. Increased Profitability: By reducing labor costs and extending operating hours beyond traditional staffed times, these facilities can significantly boost their bottom line.

  2. Enhanced Player Experience: Flexible scheduling and self-controlled gameplay mean players can hit the courts day or night.

  3. Competitive Edge: With features like self-serve door access and 24/7 remote security monitoring, autonomous facilities stand out in an increasingly crowded market.

  4. Tech Integration: Advanced systems for bookings, payments, and even performance tracking create a seamless, modern experience for players.


At JDC, we've taken this innovative concept and elevated it to new heights with Gotham Pickleball. Let's explore how this facility is set to redefine pickleball.


Gotham Pickleball: Innovation In The Big Apple


Located in the heart of Long Island City, Gotham Pickleball is more than just a place to play–it's a testament to the future of autonomous pickleball facilities. 


Let’s walk through what makes this facility so exciting. 


Enhancing Player Experience through Automation


At Gotham Pickleball, automation isn't just a buzzword–it's the cornerstone of an unmatched player experience. Imagine walking up to the facility at 2 AM, smartphone in hand, ready for a late-night rally. With a few taps, you've unlocked the door and stepped into your personal pickleball paradise.


But what about safety, one of the biggest concerns in any autonomous business? Gotham’s off-site monitoring team keeps a watchful eye 24/7, ensuring fair play and a secure environment around the clock. It's like having a virtual referee and security guard rolled into one–always there but never intrusive.


Booking Courts with the Tap of a Button


Gotham’s seamless booking system, integrated with PodPlay, means players can reserve a court anytime, anywhere. And once they’re on the court, an automated time management system keeps the games flowing smoothly with personal voice reminders when their session is nearing its end.


We've partnered with PodPlay to create a white-label app that appears in app stores as "Gotham Pickleball." From easy court reservations to accessing a range of programming, everything players need is at their fingertips with this fully branded app.

Fostering Community in an Automated World


Because pickleball is such an inherently social sport, it’s common to wonder how a tech-run facility can maintain a sense of community. With Gotham, we've cracked the code on fostering community in an automated setting.


With autonomous facilities, it’s all about identifying and empowering natural leaders among the members. These community leaders organize games and tournaments and create the kind of social atmosphere that makes players want to linger long after their official court time is over.


And let's not forget professional coaches. Even in an autonomous pickleball facility, we believe coaches play a key role beyond leading clinics and tournaments. They're not just there to improve a player’s serve–they're mentors and motivators, and the heart of a pickleball community. 


One of the standout features of Gotham is a replay technology. Players can use the iPad on the wall to capture their great points and plays with just a tap of the red button. They can save their video replays and share them on social media and in their pickleball groups–it's like having your own highlight reel!




Maximizing Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness


When done right, automation is a game-changing business strategy that creates a win-win situation for both the facility and its players.


Traditional pickleball facilities often require around 200 hours of staff time per month for operations and maintenance. At Gotham, we've streamlined this to just 20 hours per month. This 90% reduction in on-site staff time doesn't mean we're cutting corners—it means we're working smarter.


By leveraging automation, we've significantly reduced labor costs while extending Gotham’s operating hours. This combination is a powerful formula for boosting profits. 


The savings generated through automation aren't just padding the bottom line, though. Those funds are being reinvested into what really matters: creating unique experiences for Gotham’s members and marketing to spread the pickleball love even further.


Optimizing Space for Player Enjoyment


As we've studied the landscape of autonomous pickleball facilities, one lesson stands out above all: when it comes to facility design, space utilization is key. 


We've learned that you can't run a pickleball facility by focusing solely on court efficiency; a successful facility needs more than just playing space. At Gotham Pickleball, we've taken these industry lessons to heart. We understand that a thriving facility needs room for people to gather, socialize, and build the community that makes pickleball so special.


The expansive 10,000 square feet, four-court space at Gotham allows for events, programs, and tournaments–activities that are essential for building a vibrant pickleball community but impossible in a space that's too constrained.


Building a Powerful Brand Identity


Gotham Pickleball isn't just a name–it's an identity. In a city known for its sophistication, we've created a brand that resonates with NYC's discerning pickleball community.


This facility will cater to those who want to play frequently, at their convenience, and always have court access. In short, it fills a gap in the New York market for players who demand the best.


What sets Gotham apart? Unlike some of its competitors who mix pickleball with other offerings, Gotham is strictly pickleball. 


Gotham Pickleball is designed for players who demand the best:


  • Premium lighting for better visibility

  • Tournament-grade court surfaces for optimal play

  • Spacious layouts for uninterrupted games

  • Thoughtful acoustics to enhance playing experience


JDC: Shaping the Future of Autonomous Pickleball Facility Management


Gotham Pickleball is just the beginning. We see a future dotted with community-centric facilities–smaller, more accessible locations that bring the joy of pickleball to every neighborhood. And as automation and technology advances, we'll be right there, bringing these innovations to pickleball enthusiasts everywhere.


Dreaming of launching your own autonomous pickleball facility? Let’s make it happen! Book a consultation with JDC’s industry experts today. Led by professional players, Ben and Collin Johns, JDC has guided numerous owners through the process of building a pickleball facility–from seed idea to grand opening. 


Gotham Pickleball is set to open its doors in Fall 2024, and you won't want to miss our grand opening event! Interested players can learn more at https://www.gotham-pickleball.com/


And, the first 80 members who join will pay just $80 per month (regular membership price is $120 per month). Court pricing varies for peak/off-peak/open play hours.


Want to learn more about the software behind the autonomous facilities? Click HERE

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