NOTE: This project and the requested feedback is specifically for the 18-hole redesign of the Yahara Hills Golf Course. This project is NOT about the previous sale or the reduction to 18-holes, which was confirmed at the time of the sale in February 2023. We welcome feedback on the redesign.

YAHARA HILLS GOLF COURSE REDESIGN FAQ

Background

The Task Force on Municipal Golf in Madison Parks was formed in 2019 to provide recommendations to the City related to the Golf Enterprise Program and the land that it currently uses.  The Task Force’s FINAL REPORT was accepted by the Common Council in January 2021.  The report offered ten recommendations, including that the City should continue providing golf services and that it should reduce 18 holes of golf at Yahara Hills. Though the Task Force did recommend against selling of park land to generate reinvestment funding, it did not have the specific proposal related to a sale to Dane County to consider.

In February 2023 the City of Madison closed on the sale of roughly 200 acres of Yahara Hills Golf Course to Dane County, with a visionary plan to develop a Sustainability Campus. This forward-thinking initiative aims to create a vibrant hub for sustainable practices, environmental education, and community engagement. The Sustainability Campus offers benefits to the City such as reduced transportation costs and emissions, increased operational efficiency, localized waste management control, and a heightened awareness of responsible waste practices.  The Sustainability Campus is still in the planning stages, and full implementation will take place over a number of years.  The Golf Program will utilize proceeds from the Land Sale to make investments in the course.   
 

Meanwhile, 36 holes of golf are still available at the course and the City has entered into an agreement that allows for continued operation of the golf course, with a phased reduction from 36 holes to 18 holes by the end of the 2025 season. Our vision is to optimize the golfing experience for 18 holes while utilizing existing infrastructure and preserving the natural landscape. In addition, one of our key objectives is to make golf more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. To achieve this, we are committed to providing enhanced short tees. These tees will allow beginners, juniors, and those seeking a more relaxed round of golf to have a satisfying experience while still enjoying the challenge of the course. Our approach is intended to minimize disruption to the environment and maintain the course's unique character. We understand the importance of balancing the enjoyment of golf with the preservation of our natural resources, and we are dedicated to achieving this delicate harmony.

Timeline

2023-2024 Seasons: Operate existing 36 holes
2025 Season: Operate up to 27 holes
2026 Season until at least 2043*: Operate 18 holes

Please note: Course improvement work will begin in Fall of 2023 and may temporarily impact the number of holes available for play during this time.

*The Parks Division expects offer recreational amenities at this location beyond 2043. However, the type and location of those amenities will be determined at a future date.

Project Plans

The Draft Master Concept Plan for Yahara Hills is available for public review.

Public Engagement

Plans will be posted in the Yahara Hills Golf Course clubhouse to solicit feedback through September 1, 2023.

PUBLIC DROP-IN HOURS

Staff will be available at the Yahara Hills Golf Course clubhouse to answer questions and solicit feedback on the following dates:

• Monday, August 28, 2023 from 8:00-10:00am
• Friday, September 1, 2023 from 1:00-3:00pm

ONLINE INFORMATION AND INPUT SESSION

Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at 6:00pm via Zoom
Staff presented the draft plan and solicited feedback during the virtual session.
Presentation Slides