Planning commission conditionally approves Mines Golf Club driving range building and parking at 2301 O'Brien Street

The Walker Planning Commission on Sept. 17 conditionally approved a site plan to add a new driving‑range building and expand parking at the Mines Golf Club, 2301 O’Brien Street SW, authorizing the project to proceed with required permits and several conditions.

The approval, made by motion of Commissioner Rob and supported by Commissioner Jacob, included conditions that require the applicant to supply an approved on‑site wastewater permit from the Kent County Health Department, address all items in the city engineer’s report, submit two sets of sealed civil plans and provide a tree buffer along the property line with 2361 O’Brien. The commission also asked staff to work with the applicant on a lighting plan that balances parking‑lot illumination and neighborhood impacts.

Why it matters: The project would add an enclosed winter driving range with roll‑up bays, permanent restrooms and a concession/bar area to a currently mostly outdoor operation. The addition is intended to extend winter use of the facility; neighbors raised concerns about stray golf balls, lighting and late‑night…