Parks & Recreation

Capital Investments Come to Golf, Facility Improvement Fee starts 6/1

Indian Canyon Irrigation System is First Project

Golf: Call 311 or 509.755.2489 Media: Fianna, 625.6297

Thursday, May 31, 2018 at 11:06 a.m.

Capital improvements will be made to all four City of Spokane golf courses over the next few years, with a focus on water conservation and improved golfer experience.

New Irrigation

Indian Canyon, the Creek at Qualchan, Esmeralda, and Downriver will see new irrigation systems as part of the project over the next several years. Work on Indian Canyon’s irrigation system is first on the list and begins this fall. The antiquated irrigation system was installed in 1936 and leaks 27 gallons per minute; the new system is anticipated to reduce water use by 30% while improving turf quality.

Additional Improvements

Through a survey with 1,200 of our golfers last year, we identified capital improvements to our courses and facilities that are necessary to providing the experience that our customers want and have come to expect. 40 – 68% of golfers felt we should invest in capital improvements and repairs to remain competitive (percentage varied by course).

Based on feedback, the additional improvements may include: bunkers, hazards, practice facilities, greens, cart paths, on-course upgrades, club houses and infrastructure, parking lots, and lighting. We are still in the planning phase, and will ask golfers for additional feedback to prioritize projects.

Needs across all courses are likely $16M. This loan will help us accomplish about half the list, and set us up for continued improvements.

Facility Improvement Fee

To fund the capital improvements, golfers will pay a Facility Improvement Fee (FIF) for each round of golf, ranging from $1 - $4. This will repay a $7.5M loan for capital investments secured in April. The fee begins June 1 and will directly fund improvements at all four golf courses.

Because year one’s FIF comes mid-season due to loan timing, the Park Board felt it was important to avoid a significant fee increase for golfers who have already purchased memberships.

In 2018, the Facility Improvement Fees will be:

View full 2018 Rates

The Park Board will vote on 2019 rates later this year; members may see an additional increase.

Learn more about the improvements on our project page www.SpokaneGolf.org/improve

• Newer
• Older