A Fight for Preservation and More
For years, the plea to save Muny, one of the oldest public golf courses in Texas, has grown louder. But despite the rallying cries, the future of this historic course remains uncertain. Lions Municipal Golf Course, located in Austin, is not just a golf course—it represents social history, civil rights, and opportunities for people of all ages. As the first desegregated public course in the South, Muny holds significant cultural and historical value. It is a testament to the city’s connection with the University of Texas (UT) and its commitment to urban green spaces. However, the fate of Muny hangs in the balance, with the university’s silence raising concerns about its preservation.
The Financial Challenge
The main obstacle standing in the way of Muny’s preservation is money. Sitting on the 345-acre Brackenridge tract, the 141 acres dedicated to the golf course could fetch a price upwards of $750 million. This figure could potentially increase with density allowances and height variances granted to other large tracts in Austin. While there is a possibility of maintaining 20% of the land as green space, developers envision a mixed-use development with high-density housing, commercial offices, and upscale retail stores. The Muny Conservancy, however, hopes to preserve the 18-hole golf course as mandated green space, even if the rest of the land is developed.
The University’s Stance
As the lease for Muny expired in May 2019, the course has been operating on a rolling five-month lease under an agreement between UT and the city of Austin. The university has the opportunity to embrace the historical and cultural significance of Muny and its role in healing the racial tensions of the past. Gary Bledsoe, president of the Texas NAACP, emphasizes the importance of the university taking a stand and breaking away from its history of hostility towards African Americans. However, the university’s response remains uncertain, leaving supporters of Muny worried about its future.
The Value of Muny
Saving Muny is not just about preserving a golf course. It represents a milestone in civil rights history, serving as a beacon of progress and inclusivity. In 1950, two young Black kids challenged racial segregation by choosing to play at Muny. This pivotal moment, supported by Austin Mayor Taylor Glass’s endorsement, opened the course to African Americans from all over the state. This significant action predated other milestones in African American representation, such as Julius Whittier becoming the first African American letterman for the UT football team and Heman Sweatt’s successful appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, allowing him to attend the UT School of Law. The preservation of Muny honors these struggles and accomplishments.
A Call for Preservation
With the future of Muny hanging in the balance, various individuals and organizations have voiced their support for its preservation. The Muny Conservancy, along with celebrities like actor Kyle Chandler and former UT golf coach Tom Penick, has organized events and raised funds to repair and maintain the course. The community, including Mayor Kirk Watson, recognizes the importance of Muny as a public golf course and a venue for tournaments and events. However, the ultimate decision lies with UT, which has the opportunity to become a trailblazer by preserving this historic site.
A Test of Values
The battle to save Muny represents a test of UT’s values as it prepares to join the SEC and showcase its identity to other schools. By preserving Muny, UT can demonstrate its commitment to history, heritage, and inclusivity. With its substantial financial resources, the university has the means to ensure that future generations can benefit from this iconic golf course and its contribution to civil rights and social progress. The community’s outcry and support will play a crucial role in grabbing UT’s attention and urging them to make the right decision. Preserving Muny is a win for everyone involved and a testament to the power of community and heritage.
By: Kirk Bohls
Title: The Battle to Save Austin’s Historic Golf Course: Lions Municipal
Sourced From: golfweek.usatoday.com/2024/02/05/lions-municipal-golf-course-austin-texas-ben-crenshaw/
Published Date: Mon, 05 Feb 2024 18:00:35 +0000
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