Exciting Golf Developments in Oro Valley: What’s Next?
Golf has been a hot topic in Oro Valley for some time now, as the town staff and Council have been exploring options for our golf operations. With some big decisions now made, here’s a friendly update on what’s happening and what our residents can anticipate in the months and years ahead.
Over the past year, Oro Valley has taken a deep dive into evaluating the current state and future needs of our 45 holes of golf and the Community Center. Various scenarios were presented to the Town Council, assessing potential costs and revenues. The community has been actively involved in the discussions, attending numerous meetings to share their thoughts. Notably, the main homeowners associations around the Cañada and Conquistador courses have even offered financial support, showing their commitment to this community gem.
In October, the Town Council decided to keep operating 36 holes of golf, focusing on the Cañada and Conquistador courses. The plan hinges on expected revenue growth and cost savings, with HOAs pledging $625,000 over five years to help out.
As for the Pusch Ridge 9-hole course on Oracle Road, the town is still ironing out details with HSL Group, as outlined in the purchase agreement. A finalized plan should be available soon.
With the decision to continue funding the 36 holes, the next task for the Council was figuring out how to finance essential capital improvements, like irrigation repairs and upgrading the Community Center building. In November, the Council chose a pay-as-you-go method, utilizing cash savings from the dedicated half-cent sales tax over the next few years. This tax was introduced after the town acquired the property.
The town is already taking steps to ensure our courses remain in tip-top shape. First on the agenda is securing a course operator, as Troon’s management contract expires on June 30. Come January, a Request for Proposals will be issued to invite bids from qualified firms, with a decision expected by mid-to-late spring.
The irrigation systems, now more than 30 years old, need upgrading. With advancements in irrigation technology, we can improve water distribution and efficiency. Once a course operator is selected, we’ll work with them to design and implement these upgrades, exploring turf reduction to cut costs further.
Summer is quieter for golf, making it an ideal time for construction. Plans are set for the Conquistador Course’s refurbishment in summer 2021 and the Cañada Course in summer 2022, with estimates for these investments around $3.8 million.
The Community Center, a hub for golfers and non-golfers, is also due for some love. Our Center is bustling, with over 9,000 visits to fitness, tennis, and pickleball facilities just last November! Before diving into renovations, we’re developing a master plan, kicking off with a needs assessment in January. For a sneak peek, check out www.planyourparksov.com. When the plan wraps up in late 2020, we’ll prioritize improvements, aiming to start in 2023 or sooner with additional funds.
I want to thank our residents for their active involvement. Your input is vital to our work. Let’s bring that enthusiasm to our broader parks and recreation planning, ensuring we meet Oro Valley’s needs well into the future.
Mary Jacobs, Oro Valley Town Manager
Sources:
– Plan Your Parks OV