Hyde Park Golf Course Restoration Newsletter
Winter Update: “Mother Nature Hits Pause — But Progress Marches On”
Winter Transition
As we transition into winter, McDonald & Sons has begun a planned demobilization from the property. Frozen ground conditions, inconsistent weather that limits shaping work, and important safety considerations prevent efficient progress at this time. Pausing major construction ensures the integrity of the craftsmanship and the well-being of all personnel.
Recent Construction Progress
Leading into the winter slowdown, several significant tasks were completed:
• Removal of the remaining old cart path on Hole 4
• Rough shaping of soil borrow pits on Holes 13 and 6
• Installation of bunker drainage exits and tie-ins along the ravine on Hole 8
• Additional bunker drainage exits on Hole 2
This work provides a strong foundation for the spring construction window.
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| Cart Path Removal and Prep of Bury/Borrow Pit |
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| #13- 2005 |
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| #13- 2023 |
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| #13- Almost there! |
Spring Remobilization Plan
McDonald & Sons is anticipated to return in March, weather permitting. Approximately six weeks of work remain, focused on:
• Fine shaping of bunkers, surrounds, and feature transitions
• Sod installation across remaining bunkers, select fairway and rough areas, and the driving range field
• Punch-list refinement, cart path tie-ins, drainage tie-ins and settling challenges.
• Cart path repairs, refinement, and final alignment ahead of opening
Our cart path contractor will also return in the spring to complete outstanding segments and perform necessary fine-tuning to ensure a clean transition between old and new surfaces.
Throughout winter, Tyler Rae and his team will remain engaged, monitoring weather windows, and ensuring readiness for a coordinated and efficient restart.
Driving Range Timeline and Zoysia Harvesting
The driving range remains an early-season priority. The opening timeline is dependent on the completion of final sodding, which will occur once temperatures moderate and sod becomes available. At present, the anticipated opening window is late April to early May.
During this same period, the remaining Meyer Zoysia needed for bunker faces will be harvested. This may require occasional adjustments to practice facility operating hours. Disruptions will be limited to Mondays whenever possible, with advance notice provided to minimize inconvenience.
Golf Course Opening Outlook
The project remains on track for a June 2026 reopening of the golf course. A more detailed transition plan will be communicated in the spring following evaluation of post-winter turf conditions, construction progress, and seasonal growth patterns.
Irrigation System Winterization
Ley Irrigation is on site this week performing full system winterization. They will return in the spring to complete remaining tie-ins, system testing, and coordination with McDonald & Sons during final feature construction and shaping adjustments.
Winter Work by the Hyde Park Grounds Team
While major construction pauses, the Hyde Park Grounds Team will continue advancing winter-appropriate tasks that support both construction and operational readiness:
• Practice green bunker drainage
• Remaining sod installation as weather allows
• Minor drainage tie-ins
• Dormant seeding and erosion control measures
• Walking bridge construction and installation
• Breakdown and cleanup of storage bins
• Cleanup of the parking lot and surrounding work areas
These efforts maintain project momentum and prepare the property for efficient spring mobilization.
Departmental Priorities for Winter
In addition to construction support, the Grounds Team will focus on key departmental objectives:
• Recruitment and onboarding planning for 2026 interns
• Staff training and professional development
• H2-B staffing coordination and compliance
• Preventative maintenance of equipment and infrastructure
• Operational refinements aligned with the redesigned golf course
• Agronomic planning for a successful 2026 opening
Thank-you!
We extend our sincere appreciation to the membership for your patience, support, and thoughtful feedback throughout this process. The transformation of Hyde Park is well underway, and we look forward to unveiling an enhanced and revitalized golf course experience in 2026. Once again, thanks to all of our partners and our team for their dedication this season. We will continue to update the HP membership over the winter months.
Thank-you,
Pat O'Brien
Grounds Superintendent
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