As the golfing season in the Coachella Valley heats up, several desert golf courses are undergoing significant summer renovations. This trend reflects a sustained increase in golfing activity, continuing for six years, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact. The combination of lower player traffic during the summer and the need for capital improvements has prompted many courses to close temporarily.
Summer Renovations of Desert Golf Courses
With summer around the corner, golf courses are making extensive upgrades. Here are some key projects in progress:
Ironwood Country Club
- Location: Palm Desert
- Renovation Scope: Complete overhaul of the North Course’s four holes.
- Key Changes: Major renovations of bunkers and relocation of tees; plans to eliminate at least one lake.
SilverRock Resort
- Location: La Quinta
- Renovation Scope: Two-year grass replacement program for back nine holes.
- Grass Type: Transition from TifSport to Latitude 36 Bermuda grass.
- Expected Completion: Renovated nine-hole course to reopen by late August or early November.
Shadow Hills Golf Club
- Location: North Indio
- Renovation Scope: Comprehensive revamp of all 18 holes.
- Key Changes: Reduction in bunker numbers and enhancements to irrigation, drainage, and greens.
The Lights at Indio
- Location: Indio Municipal Golf Course
- Renovation Scope: New 5,000-square-foot clubhouse.
- Timeline: Original clubhouse torn down in July 2024, with the new one expected to open soon.
Coral Mountain Desert Club
- Location: South La Quinta
- Type: New golf course construction.
- Designer: David McLay Kidd aims for a links-style layout.
- Expected Opening: Planned for late 2027 or early 2028.
The renovations across these desert golf courses represent a commitment to enhancing player experience and improving course quality. With careful planning and execution, these projects will pave the way for a remarkable golfing season ahead.
