Adams Golf Course project continues on-track

Course tentatively set to reopen by first week in September

Right: Trees in this low-lying area of the course still need to be removed. More than 200 trees have been removed since the project began last year. “Adams Golf Course maintenance crews have focused on removing trees as recommended by the United States Golf Association as well as the construction of three new bridges and a culvert along the cart path,” said Assistant City Manager Laura Sanders.” Funding for the bridges and culvert is provided through private donations via the Adams Golf Course Memorial Fund.

The Adams Golf Course Greens Replacement Project is still on-track for completion late this summer or early fall, though a reopen date for the course has not yet been determined, Assistant City Manager Laura Sanders said this week.

“The greens replacement project is slightly ahead of schedule despite a very wet fall and several inches of snow last month,” Sanders said. “While this is great news, as it allows us to proceed with seeding in April, the greens will not be ready for play until likely August or September.”

Sanders said the construction of temporary greens to allow for an earlier opening may be possible, but several factors that would determine that outcome are still unknown.

“One of the biggest factors is that our contract with Jonesplan, the contractor on this project, allows them until May 2 to complete the project, clean up and remove equipment,” Sanders said. “It will come down to how soon we can make the course safe for the public and make all the other changes that are necessary to reopen early.”

The project, which got underway last fall, includes the replacement of all 18 course greens, along with the nursery, chipping and putting greens, and upgrading the course’s drainage system.

With the exception of the driving range, the course has been closed for play since last fall to accommodate the project.

A search has been underway for a new golf pro/director for the course following the retirement of longtime pro Jerry Benedict last year.

“We have completed the interview process and feel we are very close to making an announcement regarding the position,” Sanders said.

Sanders said City management will work with the new pro to determine fees, memberships, and other items related to the reopening of the course.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience as we navigate this project,” she said. “There are a lot of moving parts to consider, with not only the greens project itself but also the hiring of a new pro and completely changing the way the golf course is operated.

“But, while it has been challenging, it’s also exciting. We think Adams Golf Course patrons are going to love the new greens, and we look forward to reopening as quickly as possible.”