By EVAN NEMEROFF
As of May 2009, members of the Lawrence Village Country Club will have the opportunity to play on six newly renovated holes.
“It’s an exciting thing to redo a golf course,” said Frank Argento, the course’s general manager. “It’s a wonderful feeling and brings an opportunity for change. There is nothing not to look forward to.”
The last time work was done on the course was in 1995. Argento explained that it is important for changes and upgrades to be made every 15 years or so, and gave that as the reason for the construction that began last week. The club will eventually upgrade all 18 holes, but plans to work on six at a time. The first holes being upgraded are 1, 2, 3, 4, 17 and 18. The main purpose of the work is to improve playability and drainage throughout the course.
“We’re only doing six holes at a time so when the summer months come and when people play more often, there isn’t any work being done,” Argento said.
The par-70 course, which measures 6,528 yards from the men’s tees, will remain open during construction, and its length will not change, even with upgrades to all 18 holes.
The work is being funded by the village, with none of the money coming out of user fees. The upgrades on the first six holes will cost about $750,000, and the entire project will cost nearly $2 million.
Before construction began, the village, which owns the club, needed the approval of the village board. Not long after the board consented, the project began.
Edward Klar, a village trustee and Parks and Recreation commissioner, explained that the village board did not hesitate to grant permission for the upgrades. “We are very pleased with the concept and renovation of the golf course,” Klar said. “The architectural plans indicate [it] will have a beautiful and fresh new look for members. We are pleased work can be done in such a manner as to minimally affect play on the course.”
Argento acknowledged that the fact that club members are not paying for the work is a major factor. “That is the most important aspect behind this entire plan,” he said. “The mayor and board have been supportive in approving funding for this.”
According to Argento, members are not complaining about the renovations that will take place over the next eight months.
“It’s exciting to have a new golf course here,” said Michael Rattner, a club member for the past 20 years. “I’m looking forward to new challenges ahead on this course, and it’s going to be fun to play.”
Argento said he understands that there are many obstacles to overcome in the next few months, but he knows the construction will benefit the future of the course and the community. “It might be a little inconvenient for players,” he said. “There are always going to be bumps in the road, and players are just going to work within the confines. There may be challenges, but the sacrifices down the road are worth it.”
Comments about this story? ENemeroff@ liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 210.
