The Fox Valley Park District (FVPD) recently announced plans to overhaul the 31-year-old Orchard Valley Golf Course, which was originally designed by Ken Kavanaugh. Managed by Troon Golf, Orchard Valley Golf Course is a par 72, 18-hole layout that plays over 6,600 from the black tees.
The course has been well-received and even hosted the Illinois Open Championship in 1996 and 1998. However, after three decades, the FVPD recognized the need for infrastructure updates and improvements to enhance the golfer experience.
Despite remaining a popular golf facility in the area, Orchard Valley was showing signs of its age. While well-maintained, the infrastructure required attention.
The FVPD decided that a comprehensive renovation would be more effective than incremental improvements. This approach will bring the course up to modern standards and secure its legacy for future generations.
To modernize Orchard Valley without sacrificing its classic charm, the FVPD engaged Sugar Grove-based firm, Martin Design Golf. The planned improvements represent a considerable investment in the future of the course, with $8.8 million earmarked for upgrades. These upgrades will transform the course, making it a modern layout that is well positioned for the future.
Led by Greg Martin, Martin Design Golf has worked on numerous projects in the Chicagoland area including The Preserve at Oak Meadows, Settlers Hill Golf Course, Whitetail Ridge Golf Club and Phillips Park Golf Course. Greg has a long record of successful projects due to his attention to site conditions, budgets, market accuracy and appropriate design themes.
The scope of the renovation project is comprehensive, addressing many aspects of the course to elevate the playing experience. From bunker overhauls to upgraded greens, every detail is being carefully considered.
One of the most notable changes will be to Orchard Valley’s notorious Hole 13, named one of the Fantastic Par Fours of Chicago Golf by Chicago Golf Report. The renovation team recognizes the importance of maintaining the hole’s challenging nature.
Recognizing the need for balance between difficulty and playability, Martin Design Golf is implementing strategic adjustments. By partially filling in a portion of the wetlands alongside the hole, the fairway will be expanded. While the aim is to make Hole 13 more forgiving, it will undoubtedly retain its status as a signature challenge, providing an unforgettable experience for golfers.
The Orchard Valley golf renovation necessitates the complete closure of the golf course from November 4, 2024, through the 2025 season. This closure will allow for a smooth and efficient renovation process, minimizing disruptions and ensuring the course is ready for its grand reopening. The anticipated reopening date is set for summer 2026.
Orchards Restaurant, housed within the golf course, will remain operational until December 31, 2024. Meanwhile, construction plans for the clubhouse, pro shop, and restaurant, including the replacement of the course’s six bridges, are slated for review by the FVPD Board. These renovations signal the Park District’s commitment to transforming Orchard Valley into a complete recreational and social hub.
Beyond the physical upgrades, the Orchard Valley golf renovation project signifies a dedication to community engagement and youth involvement. This renewed focus aims to cultivate a love for golf among the next generation of players. The FVPD is committed to making golf accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
This move reflects the FVPD’s commitment to not simply improving a facility, but rather creating a lasting legacy of recreation, camaraderie, and athletic development within the Fox Valley community. The reopening in the summer of 2026 will mark the dawn of a new era, solidifying Orchard Valley’s place as a true community treasure for decades to come.
The Orchard Valley Golf Course renovation is much more than a mere facelift. It represents an investment in the future, enhancing the golfing experience, fostering a sense of community, and ensuring its continued success for years to come. The renovation will breathe new life into the course, making it a premier golfing destination in the region.
By thoughtfully addressing areas in need of attention and preserving the elements that have made Orchard Valley a success, the Fox Valley Park District is on course to create a revitalized destination for golf enthusiasts and a welcoming space for community enjoyment. With every bunker reconstructed, green revitalized, and fairway reshaped, anticipation builds for the grand reopening and the chance to experience Orchard Valley Golf Course anew.
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By Jake Fenner Published: 05:04 BST, 18 October 2024 | Updated: 05:07 BST, 18 October 2024