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Developers outline $10M private plan to rebuild Shute Park golf course, pledge public access
Summary
Leopold Johnson representatives and Kaiser Group architect presented a $10 million private redevelopment plan for Shute Park: a renovated 9‑hole course, clubhouse, public putting green, shoreline revetment and a 50‑year lease; developers say no public funds are requested and early green fees would be $24 for two years.
Representatives of the Leopold Johnson Golf Group presented their proposal to the City of Racine Executive Committee to redevelop Shute Park as a reworked 9‑hole, destination-style golf facility with a new clubhouse, public putting green and shoreline stabilization. The group said the project would be privately financed — the developers repeatedly cited a minimum investment of $10,000,000 — and structured as a long-term lease allowing private investment while maintaining public ownership of the land.
Project proponents highlighted several features: replacement of aging clubhouse and maintenance buildings, improved parking relocated off the immediate shoreline, a café and public-facing amenities, restored drainage and irrigation systems, and a public walking trail along Lighthouse Drive. The presenters said beach access would be preserved and that a public putting green and picnic tables near the lighthouse would remain open to non-golfing visitors.
Developers said initial green fees would be reduced for Racine residents — the plan posted in the agenda shows a $24 rate for the first two years — and thereafter fees would be tied to the municipal Johnson Park 9‑hole fees with the ability to apply a 5% inflator if needed. The presenters emphasized that they were not asking for city funding and described the proposal as an investment in local amenities and tourism.
Council members asked detailed questions about tree removal, public access, fee structures, employment opportunities for Racine residents and students, and the split of shoreline work from the golf-course redevelopment. The Leopold Johnson representatives and their architect said they would preserve specimen trees where possible, replant appropriate species, and follow permit reviews by the Wisconsin DNR and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for shoreline work.
The Executive Committee voted to forward the agreement authorization to the full Common Council for final action.
