Construction is under way on a nine-hole par-three course by Roy Bechtol at Atlas Ranch, a new, masterplanned community north of Austin, Texas.

The course is routed on the edge of a former quarry, with the architect leaving many of the grass-covered dirt and rock piles intact on the course’s edges. Bechtol will also limit grassing to the playing corridors and use native grasses, trees and rocks to frame the course.

“Atlas Ranch is unique in the fact that the property has real character, allowing us to build a course that takes advantage of its attributes without forcing anything,” said Bechtol. “Golfers will be able to use a few wedges and a putter and really test their game while having fun. We will make sure the greens complexes are challenging while not being too difficult.”

Holes will range from 80 to 120 yards. “Atlas Ranch’s golf course will offer holes that can be played in real competition and will be a refined but intricately designed practice ground for short game work,” said Bechtol. “It will surely be a gathering place for the community’s families and their friends and guests.”

Effluent water will be used to irrigate the nine holes and the adjacent greenbelt land. “Atlas Ranch will be one of the most unique effluent discharge projects seen in golf,” said Bechtol. “Effluent water that would normally be wasted will now be cleansed by the photosynthesis of plants and grasses. We all know how important water is as a resource in Texas and the course at Atlas Ranch will use only the grey water from the neighbourhood and what Mother Nature provides as far as rain.” 

Civil construction and infrastructure work is being executed by Texas-based JL Gray Construction while shaping and golf course work is being handled by Verde Sports Construction.

Home sales at the Atlas Ranch community will begin in late autumn 2025 and the course is expected to be playable by spring 2026.