#11 Bridge Update

 

Hard to believe it's been a year since I last updated the blog regarding the bridge on #11.  Although it may not seem like much has happened to the bridge, there is a reason the project was delayed.  Last year, after I wrote the last post, the project went to bid and the bids that came in were over budget.  Therefore, we rejected the bids and went back to the drawing board.  Since this is such an invasive project and we would need to close the back nine while the bridge is out, it was determined that we'd need to wait to do the project during the off-season.  Therefore, we planned to re advertise in fall and begin the work in December of 2020.  

With this in mind, I'm happy to report that the bridge renovation on #11 is underway!  On December 7th, the contractor began working on the project and has already made progress.  Demolition of the west cart path approach and preparations for the west side bridge abutment have begun.  Once the west side bridge abutment is finished, they will demolish the old bridge and begin building the abutment on the east side.  After both abutments are finished, the new bridge will be lifted into place and the new cart paths will be poured on each side of the bridge.  Lastly, any necessary grading and sod work will be done to finish off the project.  Barring weather delays, the contractor expects to finish the project around the end of January.  

We are really excited for this project to get finished and cannot wait to see the finished product when it's complete.  As always, we understand this improvement project is disruptive to the golf experience and appreciate your continued patience while we complete this project!  If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact the Grounds Department.

                                                                                                                            Thank you!

Sneak peek of the new bridge!  Can't wait to see it in it's new home!

2020.....A look back.

 While it's safe to say that 2020 has been....let's just call it what it is - a dumpster fire.  All of us have been affected negatively is some way by the pandemic.  Economic uncertainty, health concerns, personal struggles and a contentious election had us all on edge this past year.  Fortunately for Bailey Ranch Golf Club, golf re-emerged as a great recreational activity that was a safe respite from so much misery.  Back in the spring, when everyone was locked down, people looked for safe outdoor activities to help them stay active and have something they could do with family and friends.  Almost overnight, our daily play went up 50%.  As the pandemic persisted, the demand for golf continued throughout the year and Bailey Ranch continued to see increased play all year long.  At the end of 2020, we will have had almost 37,000 rounds.  You would have to go all the way back to 1997 to see more rounds in a calendar year.  A year that, set a record for the most rounds ever in a calendar year.    

I have to pivot here and mention the efforts of our staff.  Despite the heavy increase in rounds, our staff did an outstanding job producing a great product for our members and new guests to enjoy.  The golf course became a great place for people to forget their troubles, even if only for a few hours.  We relished the opportunity to showcase the golf course to so many fresh faces and feedback was very positive throughout the year.  I couldn't be more proud of our staff and all their hard work.  We couldn't possibly have done it without their determination and dedication to our mission.  We are hopeful this renewed interest in golf will carry into the future and look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead in 2021!