By Richard Humphreys |
Colonial Country Club in Fort Myers, Florida, has reopened following a $9 million renovation of its golf course by original architect Gordon Lewis.
The nine-month project focused on improving the course’s playability, aesthetics and sustainability.
Gordon redesigned every green to allow for more pin positions and they have been regrassed with TifEagle bermudagrass. Tees, fairways and rough were regrassed with Bimini bermudagrass.
Twenty bunkers have been removed and those that reman have been revamped, with the sand square footage increasing by nearly half an acre. All bunkers now feature CapillaryFlow liner for enhanced drainage and reduced maintenance.
One key aspect of the project was installing a new 650-linear-foot bulkhead surrounding the eighteenth green (pictured), which ensures structural integrity and provides a visual appeal to the finishing hole.
Other work has included installing a new HDPE irrigation system with Rain Bird IC and nearly 2,000 sprinkler heads, planting more than 400 trees and 20,000 landscape plants, re‑establishing waste areas that previously held water during summer months, and reconfiguring cart paths.
Gordon has also designed a new 6,000-square-foot practice green, and a new chipping green.
“The renovation has transformed the course into something truly exceptional,” said Dan Casciano, board president at Colonial. “It is better than ever and raises the bar for the member experience across the entire club. This is a milestone we are proud of and one our members will feel every time they tee it up.”
Robert D. Podley, general manager at Colonial, said: “This renovation was about delivering on a promise to our members. It was made possible through the collaboration of our committees, the board, and the outstanding leadership of Troon and our associates, most notably director of agronomy Pat Tohill and his team.
“From design through execution, every decision was guided by playability, sustainability and the overall member experience. The result is a golf course that is better than ever and positioned to serve our community for many years to come.”