Disc golfers push Cre ek Ridge expansion; board asks staff to study 18‑hole plan

Brad Rosas Torres, a local disc‑golf player, urged the LaPorte County Parks and Recreation Board on Aug. 5 to redesign the nine‑hole Creek Ridge course into an 18‑hole layout that preserves the site’s wooded character and can support tournaments and a weekly league. "We'd like to try to make it a 18 hole course there," Brad said during public comment, describing efforts to modernize the layout while avoiding tree removal.

Board members and staff discussed practical details including tournament size, typical attendance and equipment needs. Brad said comparable 18‑hole courses draw weekly leagues of 15–25 players and tournaments that can attract 50–60 participants; he noted the park’s location off I‑94 helps draw out‑of‑state players. Board members raised maintenance and liability matters; Brad said many tournaments are sanctioned through the Professional Disc Golf Association and that clubs can arrange liability coverage for events.

Jeremy, a park staff member, outlined next steps: staff will inventory existing hardware and site constraints, seek cost estimates for new baskets and course upgrades, and pursue funding sources such as health‑foundation grants or in‑kind donations. He emphasized the board does not have the funds on hand and would need to look for grants and partner contributions.

The board voted to direct staff to advance planning for an 18‑hole redesign and to return with costs and funding options. The motion was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote.

The matter will return to the board with cost estimates and a proposed timeline; no construction or contract awards were authorized at the meeting.