Harwich golf director proposes driving-range test of new tees, schematic; refurbishment budget minimal

Roman, the golf director, told the Harwich Golf Committee the town plans to test new tee inserts and station separators on the driving range as a low-cost trial before any larger investment. "These are called Raintown tees," he said, explaining the vendor would cut slots into the existing mats so they accept a tee rather than requiring a concrete-like hit. He said the mat refurbishing alone should be "under 1,000 dollars."

The schematic discussed would set roughly 11 stations on the mat tee and about 16 stations on the grass tee; Roman said the layout mirrors spacing used at other courses and aims to improve safety and reduce turf damage. Committee members raised concerns about people hitting off the edges of the grass and staff wear; Roman said the design should reduce side-traffic and that staff will monitor results during the test.

On timing, Roman said he was "hoping to get [the vendor] out in August, but it could be September," and that the course traditionally shuts down the grass tee around Columbus Day, making fall a logical target to complete work. He emphasized the plan is a trial: if the test succeeds, the committee could consider investing in a new permanent tee line.

Committee members generally supported the trial, noting the test’s expected low cost and that it addresses recurring player feedback about tee options. The committee asked Roman to report back next month with a vendor date and any updated cost quotes. The committee did not take a formal vote on the range installation at the meeting.