Sand Creek Station golf course reports record revenues and announces rate increases

In the heart of Newton, Kansas, city officials gathered at the local council meeting to discuss the promising financial outlook for Sand Creek Station Golf Course. As the sun streamed through the windows of city hall, the atmosphere buzzed with optimism, particularly as the golf course celebrated what has been dubbed its "unicorn year" in 2024—a record-breaking season that saw the highest number of playable days and rounds played in its history.

The meeting highlighted the impressive statistics from the previous year, with 252 playable days generating approximately $8,100 in revenue per day. This success has set a high bar for the upcoming budget, with projections indicating a revenue goal exceeding $2 million for the first time in the course's history. However, the path forward is not without its challenges.

To sustain this momentum, officials announced a slight increase in daily fees, effective May 1. Weekend rates will rise from $50 to $52, while weekday rates will adjust from $43 to $45. Special promotional rates for seniors and military personnel will also see a modest increase. Despite these changes, officials reassured attendees that the new pricing remains competitive, particularly when compared to nearby Wichita, where weekday rates are still a dollar higher.

The discussions also touched on the importance of weather patterns and their impact on the number of playable days, which are crucial for revenue generation. While the past year was exceptional, there are concerns about maintaining such high levels of play in the future. The meeting underscored the need for ongoing improvements and repairs to the course, which will depend on the financial health of the facility moving forward.

As the meeting wrapped up, the council members expressed a commitment to ensuring that Sand Creek Station not only meets its ambitious revenue goals but also continues to provide a quality experience for golfers from Harvey County and beyond. With a focus on strategic planning and community engagement, the future of the golf course looks bright, promising both economic benefits and recreational opportunities for residents.