2026 Bunker Renovation Project
Why do we need to renovate our bunkers?
PREVIOUS RENOVATION | 2010
LIFE EXPECTANCY
LINERS | 10-15 YEARS
DRAINAGE | 5-10 YEARS
BUNKER SAND | 5-7 YEARS
The most recent renovation of our bunkers was completed in 2010. The liners used in 2010 have a life expectancy of approximately 10-15 years. With the liners exceeding their useful life, performance has deteriorated, causing contaminated and inconsistent bunker sand.
Further, The American Society of Golf Course Architects – along with the USGA and other allied golf associations developed estimates of the expected life cycle for golf course infrastructure. The life span for bunker drainage is 5-10 years, while the useful life of bunker sand is 5-7 years. We have enjoyed 15 years of bunker use, which far exceeds the life span for all bunker infrastructure components.
2 What changes are being made to the bunkers?
REPLACED IN EVERY BUNKER DRAINAGE
LINERS SAND
RESTORE BUNKER BANKS/EDGES
REDUCE AMOUNT OF BUNKERS 75 to 65
The proposed renovation will include a replacement of the drainage, liners, and sand in every bunker, while also restoring bunker banks/edges.
The proposed plan calls for reducing the total number of bunkers from 75 down to 65. By reducing the number and size of existing bunkers, our maintenance team can focus on more pressing issues and projects around the golf course.
Of the original 75 bunkers, 38 will remain with minor modifications, 23 re-shaped, 14 removed, while 4 new bunkers will be added.
The bunkers slated for reshaping, removal, or addition are based on strategic design considerations proposed by the course architect.
3
Who is overseeing the renovation?
The project is being led by Eric Iverson, principal of Renaissance Golf Design (RGD). Both RGD and Mr. Iverson have provided consultation services for the Club over the past twelve years. RGD will collaborate with our Golf Course Superintendent, Bunker Renovation Ad Hoc Committee, and Club Leadership.
Will the course remain open during construction?
Yes, we aim to keep the course open.
Some holes or areas may be temporarily closed, shortened or rerouted to promote golfer safety and expedient construction.
How long will the renovation take?
3 MONTHS
TENTATIVE PROJECT
TIMELINE
March 2026 - June 2026
The project is expected to take approximately 3 months to complete, depending on weather and other conditions that may be encountered. We will keep Members informed of progress and any timeline adjustments.
The tentative project timeline calls for construction to commence in March 2026 with completion in June 2026.
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How will play be affected?
Temporary bunkers or alternative tee and green placements will be used. We appreciate your patience and will do our best to minimize impact to our members.
We’re selecting sand mined in the United States that meets USGA standards for consistency, playability, and drainage. Samples will be available for members to see.
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What type of sand will be used?
Will the character of the course change?
The renovation respects the original Seth Raynor design intent while improving functionality.
You’ll notice enhanced aesthetics and improved bunker strategy, but the overall character of the course will remain intact.
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Is this part of a larger capital plan?
Yes, the bunker renovation is part of a phased capital replacement plan to maintain and elevate the course over time, ensuring it remains a world-class, PGA TOUR quality facility.
Funding comes from the Club’s Capital Improvement Budget and does not require a special assessment.
The current estimated project cost is $5.2M. This amount is already accounted for and funded. The proposed Bunker Renovation Project requires membership approval.
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How is the project being funded?
Can Members provide input or ask questions?
Absolutely. We encourage feedback and questions. We will provide information about the Bunker Renovation Project through multiple avenues, including, but not limited to: email, displays, Palapala Newsletter, and membership meetings.
Further, we will open a notice and comment period of approximately 30 days, where our proposed plan will be distributed and your feedback will be encouraged.