BLUE BELL, Pa. (October 12, 2007) – There are two basic paths toward renovation of the golf course at a private country club. The first, and most complete renovation, means closing the course to all play and doing the work over a 12-to18 month period. During that time members depend on the hospitality of neighboring private clubs to continue playing golf.
The other path is a gradual one. It takes a lot longer but, if done properly, play is minimally affected on the home course.
The latter path is the one that was recently chosen by Meadowlands CC in Blue Bell, Pa., after first embarking on the former, with mixed results.
In 1995 a major step was taken when the entire course was closed and rebuilt over a period of 12 months. At that time, a decision was made not to rebuild 11 of the original 1950 vintage greens because of their classic contouring. Unfortunately, the ravages of 21st century agronomic diseases care little for such niceties and those greens became prone to fungi related problems. In 2000, three additional new greens were constructed. That left the course with eight old holes – excellent designs, but hampered by old, clay-based, disease prone green complexes.
This year, with the addition of two newly built additional greens, giving the course 20 greens, two entirely new green complexes were installed on holes 4 and 18. At the same time, member play continued through the construction period on an 18-hole golf course that was still enjoyable and challenging.
"I was instructed to do the renovations in such a way that we could keep the golf course open," said Len Ehrlich, green chairman at Meadowlands. "That’s not always the easiest path, but it’s the one that keeps the members happiest."
First, the design team headed by highly acclaimed architect Rick Jacobsen was brought in to re-shape the greens and bring the bunker complexes into unison with the others on the course. Jacobsen was responsible for the designs at two other courses in the Philadelphia area – Makefield Highlands in Bucks County and Bear Trap Dunes at the Delaware Shore. He has designed courses all over the world, including recent work in China.
Also, Total Turf of Chalfont, Pa. was hired to do the construction.
"We researched both of these companies thoroughly and felt they were best equipped to do what we wanted, the way we wanted things done," stressed Ehrlich. "We have a definitive master plan and we are determined to stick to it."
Superintendent Jim Lynagh has seen the entire process evolve and understands the impact.
"Sure, some of the renovations target playability, adding more challenge to some holes, improving the aesthetics and other things," said Lynagh. "But the constant throughout every bit of renovation we have done is that the agronomic condition of the course is improved.
"Whether it involves tree removal, which is one of the most important parts, or aerification techniques or drainage, it results in better conditioning," added Lynagh. "This has been such a long process but every little baby step brings us closer and closer to our final goal and that is to have an exceptional and healthy golf course."
The rest of the plan includes renovation of three more holes without interruption of play next year. The final three holes will be renovated in 2009. By having 20 full greens complexes, the course can be rerouted during the construction process to allow the continued play of 18 holes.
For more information and photos regarding Meadowlands CC, contact TL Golf Services at 610-279-9220.
Contact:
TL Golf Services
610-279-9220 or tleodora@aol.com
