Mike Benkusky, ASGCA, is spearheading a project that will have a major positive impact for golfers in the northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Benkusky developed a master plan for renovations to Arlington Lakes Golf Club, part of the Arlington Heights (Illinois) Park District. The project begins June 2015 and is expected to last one year.
As detailed in the June 2015 issue of “Chicago District Golfer” magazine, Benkusky’s plan for the 36-year-old course is to make it more playable for golfers of all ages and skill levels, while maintaining the challenges a strong golf course provides.
“The first thing that will jump out at the golfers is the reduction in bunkers,” Benkusky told the magazine. “We are going from 106 bunkers to 38. The course should play a little easier for the average golfer because all the greens will not be surrounded by bunkers. Golfers will have a better chance with recovery shots around the greens.”
Changes are also coming to the greens and even the current routing will be changed. In all, nine greens will be rebuilt.
“The current 16th, 17th and 18th holes will be reveresed to play in the other direction,” Benkusky said. “This will help with safety issues and circulation problems around the greens. The routing will change as we flip the nines. This is being done so golfers short on time will be able to play three- or six-hole routes that will take them back to the clubhouse.”
Renovations will continue by decreasing yardage and creating new tees.
“The forward tees will be moved up a total of about 200 yards and we will create a new set of junior tees,” Benkusky said. “Those tees give junior players some par 4s that play about 200 yards.”
The entire article can be found beginning on p. 28 here.