A
SGCA President Rick Robbins
expressed optimism about the
outlook for golf’s economy when
he spoke during a press conference at
the 2014 Golf Industry Show, which took
place in the Orange County Convention
Center in Orlando, Fla., in February.
Robbins and other ASGCA members
noted that architects and others are
seeing an increase in activity by golf
course developers and decision makers,
many of whom believe that now is a
good time to act on projects or at least
begin to plan for them.
“The global recession slowed activity
creating new courses and renovating
existing ones,” Robbins said. “But
rock bottom interest rates and
worldwide interest in golf have golf
course developers looking at projects
all over the globe. ASGCA members
are working on projects in both
hemispheres, from countries with an
expanding middle class to those trying
to drive increased tourism.”
Robbins also said that in North
America, many courses and clubs have
strengthened their balance sheets and are
playing catch up on capital investments
that were put off several years ago.
“They’re looking at how they can address
irrigation, drainage, turf and other issues,
and simply adapt to a golfing public that
has changed a great deal,” he said.
DIGEST
Golf development activity on the rise
Architects talk business
Golf Industry Show
As part of the Golf Industry Show’s
Educational Conference, ASGCA
members took part in a panel discussion
covering topics affecting the industry.
Robert McNeil, ASGCA highlighted
growing activity in municipal golf.
“Municipal decision-makers are looking
to improve cash flow and increase rounds.
Many are looking at various forms of
renovation,” said the Rhode Island-
based architect. “They also know that
golf courses can be part of the solution
as they address issues like stormwater
management and other water issues.”
Jason Straka, ASGCA added that
sustainability is top of mind for all in
the industry. “Golf courses continue to
respond to society’s need for sustainable
development,” said Straka. “Those
involved in new golf courses and existing
ones are unlocking the potential of golf
courses to provide everything from
carbon sequestration to tax revenue.”
Lester George, ASGCA detailed three
award-winning projects that illustrate
how practice areas are essential to
attracting and retaining golfers. “Today’s
golfers are pressed for time and can’t
always get on the golf course so more
are turning to the practice facility,” said
George. “But it needs to be for creative
shot-making and not just ball-hitting.”
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ASGCA President Rick Robbins (left) was joined at GIS by Rick Lohman from Toro
Renovation work
continues to surge
ASGCA members continue to
see a strong interest in renovation
and redesign work, with projects
underway throughout the United
States and beyond, including:
Emerald Bay Golf Club, Florida
Bob Cupp, ASGCA Fellow
Major renovation due for
completion in summer
The Experience at Koele, Hawaii
Jack Nicklaus, ASGCA Fellow
Redesign due to be completed
in 2014
Palo Alto Municipal Golf Course,
California
Forrest Richardson, ASGCA
Construction work begins in May
Fort Myers Country Club, Florida
Steve Smyers, ASGCA
Total rebuild will break ground
in April
University of New Mexico
Andy Staples, ASGCA Associate
Scheduled to reopen in mid-April,
following irrigation and design work
Engineers Country Club, New York
Tripp Davis, ASGCA
Master plan for renovations
completed
Atlantic Beach Country Club, Florida
Erik Larsen, ASGCA
Ground broken on complete
redesign project
Dennis Pines and Dennis
Highlands, Massachusetts
Robert McNeil, ASGCA
Work on comprehensive
enhancement to begin in autumn
Playa Grande Golf Club,
Dominican Republic
Rees Jones, ASGCA Fellow
and Bryce Swanson, ASGCA
Major renovation in progress
