WINTER HAVEN (Florida) — It has been over a decade since Willowbrook Golf Course was remodeled. The next step is to decide where to begin.
Winter Haven officials approved a $2.6-million contract with Palm Coast’s Michael Beebe & Associates to improve the municipally-owned golf course.
Julie Adams, director of culture, parks and recreation, said: “We are really excited.”
Duke Energy Corp. recently paid the city $2.6 million for land to build high-voltage transmissions lines on the edge of Willowbrook Golf Course.
Adams stated that “Our commission is firmly committed to the provision of municipally owned golf courses and has decided to reinvest.”
Adams stated that the 18-hole golf course hosts about 35,000 rounds per year, or a little more than 100 rounds a day. Over the past decade, there has been no significant work done on the greens or their amenities.
She said, “In the last 10 years, I have made some small investments in capital, but not to the extent of what this project will require.”
Adams stated that there are a number of issues the city wants addressed as the project moves into the design phase.
Several projects will be undertaken to improve the condition of the greens. The city is also looking to update and replace its existing irrigation system.
Andy Palmer, Winter Haven’s recreation superintendent, stated that the city is working with its utilities department in order to increase the capacity of an pond which stores re-used water. This would allow the city to have more storage space. The re-used water can be used for irrigation of the greens.
Winter Haven commissioners have approved a $2.6million contract for major improvements at the Willowbrook Golf Course, which is owned by the city. Their wish list includes improvements to irrigation and landscaping, improvements to greens, improvements for golf carts, new restrooms near the greens as well as clubhouse upgrades and improvements. (Photo by Ernst Peters/The Ledger).
Adams stated that Willowbrook’s course can have flooding or standing water issues in low-lying areas. Some areas may only have cart paths. Joe Koly reported drainage issues near 12 of 18 holes to contractor who recommended a master drain plan.
She said that it usually dissipates within a few days. ” Drainage can be improved.”
The city hopes that the funds will be able to make significant improvements in Willowbrook’s cart path. The city is not yet sure if this means resurfacing of existing paths, or creating new pathways.
Palmer explained that they were doing much of this via a contract for design and construction, which gave them a great deal of flexibility. When we enter the design phase in early 2019, we will begin to prioritize golf operations, and we will have some public feedback.
Adams stated that the city prioritizes modernizing Willowbrook’s Clubhouse, along with improvements to restrooms and pro shops.
Palmer stated that the design and construction of Willowbrook upgrades is expected to be completed in 18-24 months. Initial projects that are easier to complete, such as landscaping upgrades, may begin sooner. However, work that requires permits and construction could start later.
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Adams stated that the goal of the construction is to keep the golf course open and playable throughout the entire process. Construction will be done in phases, with the majority of it taking place during off-season.
She said, “Golf operation is our priority and we are moving forward to improve the overall customer experience.”
Sara-Megan Walsh may be reached by email at [email protected], or by phone at 863-802-7545. Follow @SaraWalshFl.
