Commission directs staff to explore public-private golf partnership for West End Park, removes disc golf from Phase 1

The Alachua County Commission on June 2 approved revisions to the West End Community Park master plan, striking a proposed disc-golf layout from the early-phase scope and asking staff to explore a public–private partnership to deliver a golf amenity on the parks western side.

Parks staff presented a revised two-phase plan that moves playgrounds, shade structures, an event lawn, restroom, dog park and a multiuse trail into the first construction phase and leaves sports courts and supporting facilities for later work. "So what we've done is change it around to where we could add playgrounds, shade sails, a pavilion, event lawn, nearby restroom, dog park, multiuse trail," the presenter said during the briefing.

Commissioner Prizia moved to adopt staffs funding recommendations while removing disc golf from Phase 1b and directing staff to "explore the procurement process for finding a public–private partner" to evaluate possible golf uses on the west side. The motion passed after public comment.

Local speakers urged the board to consider a full 9-hole course and a driving range rather than a pitch-and-putt. "If you go back to the fall of 2024, the county did a survey of the needs or wants from the community. The top three vote-getters were a 9-hole golf course, walking trails, and a driving range," Paul Hornby, who identified himself as president of the West End Community Alliance for Recreation and Education, told commissioners.

Staff said there are parties that have expressed interest in partnering and that any partnership would be vetted through the countys procurement process. "We would work with procurement and that team to put out an RFP," a Parks staff member said, adding that private partners typically pay to build, operate and maintain facilities and would be required to meet county standards for upkeep and public access.

Timing for design and construction was discussed: staff estimated roughly six to nine months for design and permitting and another nine months to a year for construction, though some staff suggested parts of the schedule could be tightened because of prior public input.

The motion to strike disc golf from the near-term scope and pursue procurement exploration for a golf partner passed unanimously on the record; commissioners directed staff to return with procurement options and proposals for the boards final decision.

What happens next: Staff will consult procurement on possible solicitation formats (RFP or invitation) and return to the board with any proposals, cost estimates and required amendments to the capital-improvement plan.