Renowned golf course architect A.W. Tillinghast, known for iconic courses like Winged Foot and Baltusrol, also left his mark on municipal courses, including the historic Swope Memorial in Kansas City.
A Storied Past
Swope Memorial, part of the Kansas City golf chain, originally opened its doors in 1919 and received Tillinghast’s touch-up in 1934. The course holds a significant place in golf history, having hosted the Kansas City Open, a PGA Tour event, in 1949. Golfweek’s Best ranks it among the top courses in Missouri, trailing only behind premier destinations like the Big Cedar Lodge courses.
The Need for Renovation
Despite its rich heritage, Swope Memorial is showing signs of wear and tear. City officials acknowledge the course’s deteriorating condition, with issues ranging from deteriorating bunkers to outdated irrigation systems and compromised greens.
“The bunkers have seen better days, the irrigation system is antiquated,” remarked Douglas Schroeder, director of golf services for Kansas City Parks & Recreation. “The cart paths are made of asphalt, and most don’t allow for proper drainage. The greens are being invaded by poa annua, which is a bluegrass that can’t survive in the heat.”
“One thing led to another,” continued Schroeder, “and finally it was like, It’s time. This is a prized asset of the parks department, and we need to spend some money to get it back to the gold standard it should be.”
The Revitalization Plan
To address these challenges, the city’s parks department is seeking approval from the city council for a $7 million renovation project. The proposed overhaul aims to restore the classic course to its former glory and enhance its appeal to both local golfers and tourists. If approved, the course will undergo extensive renovations overseen by CE Golf Design, a local firm led by Todd Clark.
“I really think it’s something that will benefit the city greatly,” shared Schroeder with the Star. “For local golfers, but also for tourism. This will be a course people will want to visit.”
By: Tim Schmitt
Title: Renovation Plans for Historic Golf Course in Kansas City
Sourced From: golfweek.usatoday.com/2024/05/20/a-w-tillinghast-kansas-city-golf-swope-memorial/
Published Date: Mon, 20 May 2024 15:05:03 +0000
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