Downriver, Qualchan, Indian Canyon, & Esmeralda Re-open May 5, 2020

Revised COVID-19 protocols will align with Governor’s orders

Media: Fianna Dickson, 625.6297 Golf: Please call the course (numbers below)

Wednesday, April 29, 2020 at 11:48 a.m.

SPOKANE – City of Spokane Parks & Recreation golf courses are preparing to re-open on May 5 with revised operations.

“As one of the first industries to re-open, we take seriously the responsibility to provide an environment that aligns with the Governor’s requirements and recommendations for slowing the spread of COVID-19,” said Mark Poirier, PGA, Golf Manager for the City of Spokane. “Our focus remains on supporting the health and well-being of our customers, staff, partners, and the community.”  

The City is finalizing COVID-19-specific protocols that alter operations, in alignment with Governor Inslee’s restart plan. These protocols are being developed in partnership with Spokane County golf courses and will follow recommendations from the CDC.

Downriver, The Creek at Qualchan, Indian Canyon, and Esmeralda will post the final policy prior to opening on May 5.

Here are a few operational changes to anticipate:

  • Tee times and payment: please call the course to book your tee time. (Online tee times are a bit complex amidst these new protocols, so tee times are only available via phone at this time. We will offer online tee times again in the future.)  Cards will be accepted; no cash please. Plastic “sneeze guard” barriers will be placed at each terminal.
  • Twosomes: per the Governor’s order, twosomes have become the current standard as we re-open for play. Please call the golf course for “Family Play” times. 
  • All carts: one rider per cart, unless a minor is playing.
  • Driving range/putting green: Range and putting greens may only be used by those with a scheduled tee time, within 30-minutes of play
  • Leave the stick: for the time being, we are leaving the flagstick in the green. This is a USGA-approved tactic to limit touch points.
  • Cup liners: we’ll have cup liners in place to prevent people from reaching in to retrieve their ball.
  • No rakes or garbage cans: we’re removing rakes and other frequently touched items under the Governor’s guidelines. If you pack it in, please pack it out.
  • Increased cleaning: High-touched areas, restrooms, range balls, and carts cleaned frequently.
  • Food and beverage: providing to-go orders only.
  • Six foot rule: And of course, please keep at least 6’ between you and those outside your household.

When we re-open, we ask that participants please not attend golf facilities if you experience symptoms or have been in contact with someone experiencing symptoms; our staff will do the same.

To book tee times, please call the course:

Esmeralda: 487-6291

The Creek at Qualchan: 448-9317

Downriver: 327-5269

Indian Canyon: 747-5353

Protocols may change based on new information or evolving best practices. We will continue to follow the recommendations of local and state public health experts in collaboration with the City of Spokane leadership.

 

About City of Spokane Parks and Recreation

City of Spokane Parks and Recreation is the place to go for events, activities, classes and more. Enjoy all your city has to offer by visiting our website at spokaneparks.org. For more information, follow us @SpokaneParks on Facebook and Twitter.

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