Nogales Foundation proposes three-phase development for Meadow Hills golf range

In the heart of Nogales, Arizona, a vision is taking shape to revitalize the Meadow Hills golf range and course, a project that promises to breathe new life into the community. During a recent city council meeting, representatives from a local foundation outlined an ambitious three-phase development plan aimed at enhancing recreational facilities and making golf more accessible to residents, particularly youth.

The foundation has already made strides in improving the golf range, thanks to generous community donations exceeding $10,000. These funds have been used to purchase new range balls and lights, setting the stage for further enhancements. The foundation is currently collaborating with leading golf construction and management companies to develop a comprehensive operating budget and reconstruction estimates for the golf course.

The first phase of the proposal focuses on upgrading the existing golf range. Plans include improving the turf quality, expanding practice facilities, and enhancing safety measures by installing nets along busy roads. The foundation aims to manage these improvements in partnership with the city, ensuring that the range becomes more user-friendly and accessible to a broader audience.

The second phase targets the facilities surrounding the golf course, which currently include a restaurant and office spaces. The foundation seeks to revitalize these areas by finding tenants, reopening the unused pool, and adding recreational spaces for community use. This phase emphasizes creating a welcoming environment for families and youth.

The final phase envisions the reopening of the golf course itself, with plans for either a nine or eighteen-hole layout that prioritizes sustainable landscaping and community accessibility. The foundation hopes to enter into a letter of intent with the city to formalize this ambitious project.

The benefits of this initiative extend beyond mere recreation. Improved facilities could attract tourism, reduce maintenance costs for the city, and enhance property values in the area. Additionally, the foundation is in discussions to bring the First Tee program to Nogales, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of underserved youth through golf. This partnership would provide local schools with access to practice facilities, eliminating the need for students to travel to neighboring towns for tournaments.

As the city council considers this proposal, the potential for a revitalized Meadow Hills golf range and course stands as a beacon of hope for the community. With the foundation's commitment to fundraising through grants and donations, the project promises to create jobs, foster community engagement, and ultimately transform Nogales into a destination for golf enthusiasts and families alike. The council's decision could mark the beginning of a new chapter for recreational opportunities in the city, one that prioritizes accessibility and community well-being.