In a recent meeting of the Universal City Council, discussions centered on the urgent need for renovations at the local golf course, which has been in operation for 25 years. The council authorized collaboration with golf course architect Mason Crace to assess the costs and necessary improvements, following an initial estimate of $3.5 to $4.5 million from a previous contractor.

Crace presented key findings from his report, highlighting four critical areas requiring attention: bunkers, irrigation systems, tee boxes, and tree management. He noted that the existing bunkers have become labor-intensive and problematic due to their size and lack of modern infrastructure, leading to soil contamination and increased maintenance costs. The recommendation is to redesign these bunkers to reduce their footprint and improve playability, which could enhance the overall golfer experience.

The irrigation system, also original to the course, is outdated, with many components becoming difficult to maintain or replace. Crace suggested a hybrid solution that would update the control systems while retaining existing piping, potentially saving costs while improving efficiency.

Tee boxes are showing significant wear due to high usage, with projections of 45,000 to 46,000 rounds of golf this year alone. Crace recommended expanding and leveling these areas to accommodate the volume of play better.

Tree management was another focal point, as many trees have grown larger and could pose safety risks or contribute to erosion. Crace emphasized the importance of addressing these issues to maintain the course's integrity and safety.

The architect proposed that combining these renovations into a single project could yield cost savings and ensure quality control, as one contractor would oversee all aspects of the work. This approach would also allow the golf course to remain operational during renovations, minimizing revenue loss.

Council members expressed concerns about whether these renovations were a necessity or a luxury, given the course's current popularity. Crace argued that the deteriorating condition of the infrastructure has moved the situation beyond mere desire, emphasizing that timely renovations could prevent more costly repairs in the future.

The council is expected to deliberate further on these recommendations, weighing the financial implications against the potential benefits to the community and the golf course's long-term viability.