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Neighbors split as council hears proposal for nine‑hole disc golf course at Petersen Park
Summary
Residents and presenters clashed over safety and planning for a proposed nine‑hole disc golf course at Petersen Park; presenters cited grants and low maintenance while nearby homeowners urged a master plan and warned of safety risks. Staff said the open‑space ordinance may require planning commission review for a material change.
Mark Allison, an Alpine resident, and Scott Gardner of the nonprofit Elevate Utah proposed creating a small, nine‑hole disc golf course in Petersen Park, emphasizing a beginner‑friendly design, low maintenance and educational plaques highlighting the park’s arboretum features. "We're proposing a small 9‑hole course," Allison said, noting the intent to preserve trees and avoid major construction.
Presenters suggested the Utah Outdoor Recreation program's Tier‑1 grants — which allow up to $200,000 with a 50/50 match — could help pay for course improvements and related park work, and Elevate Utah offered to assist with grant writing and community outreach. They proposed limited parking at the park’s northwest corner and volunteer support for upkeep.
Several nearby residents objected during public comment. Elliot Jacobson, who owns property surrounded on three sides by Petersen Park, said the plan was the first he had heard of and warned of safety risks: "Flying objects going 20 to 30 miles an hour and weighing half a pound are not consistent to safe walking," he said. Jackie Beasley, who has lived on Paradise Lane for more than five decades, stressed frequent use of the park by elderly residents and runners and said discs could pose a hazard and increase trespass into yards.
City staff and council discussed process questions: staff said the open‑space ordinance contains provisions for work on city property and that a proposal judged to be a "material change" would require public notice, planning commission review and a public hearing before council action. Staff and council members suggested a Petersen Park master plan would be appropriate and helpful before approving significant changes.
Council took no formal vote on the proposal; staff and the presenters agreed to refine the design, pursue community outreach and clarify permitting and planning steps — including whether the improvement would proceed as a private improvement on city land or a city‑owned project. Presenters said they will continue grant work and a workshop to prepare an application and more detailed plans.
