Does Renovating a Municipal Golf Course Pay Off?
Due to the popularity of golf over the course of the last 15 years, there’s now a growing trend to upgrade or renovate municipal golf courses. Cities have recognized the impact of golf and many with old failing centers are now deciding to invest in the area. The growing question for city planners and other leadership is how do we know we’ll receive a return on the investment.
Most cities begin with a feasibility study. Generally, they contract a company to study the rate of return or the feasibility of renovating the golf course renovation. Consultants along with city planners and often golf course architects, determine what’s needed based on a goal. Most golf course consulting firms have data and past experience, which allows for a baseline of information. However, for the municipality’s specific location, objectives have to be made targeted results have to be determined.
Today, most of the data revealed in the benefits of renovating a municipal golf course are positive. As noted in an article written by Golf course Architect Jeffrey D. Brauer for Golf Industry.com, a survey done by Sirius Golf Advisors reflects and definite return. Brauer states: “The statistics also show that first year returns are often highest, probably due to pre-re-opening marketing, buzz, and curiosity, and then dip into a more sustainable pattern the second year. While the survey only covered the first two years of post-renovations operations, for which they had data, for consistency, NGF notes that most courses have maintained their new revenue levels, even for those that are 10 years old now”.
If you’re considering renovating an older golf course, it’s important to do your homework. Start with consulting an ASGCA membered Golf Course Architect. The member will guide you through the process. Studies have already shown there are significant benefits to renovating your municipal courses. Determining the budgeting, marketing, and projected revenue is the challenge.
If you’re or your city’s leadership is considering renovating your community golf course, contact award-winning golf course architect Jeffrey D. Brauer. He’s renovated many municipal golf courses with great success. Contact Jeffrey D. Brauer at 817-797-6376.
Jeffrey D. Brauer/GolfScapes, Inc.
3809 Canton Jade Way
Arlington, TX 76005
Ph: 817-797-6376