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BASTROP — A floodprone lot that once was slated for town homes could soon become a nine-hole, par-3 golf course, officials said.
The 15-acre property at Texas 95 and Farm Street was originally planned for a 75-unit townhome development before being reclassified as part of a flood plain, halting the project. The city purchased the lot and, with the parks and recreation master plan calling for diversity in sporting options, began exploring the possibility of a golf course.
City Manager Carrillo-Trevino engaged the National Golf Foundation to conduct a feasibility study, which concluded the site has the characteristics needed for golf course development and that Bastrop can sustain a small par-3 course.
“Quality of life is a component that we really can’t measure in dollar bills, and we have to provide it for our community,” Councilwoman Cynthia Meyer said at the April 28 City Council meeting.
According to the city, estimated construction costs reach $3.5 million, with about $2 million more needed for facilities like a clubhouse or maintenance shed.
Carrillo-Trevino said the course could generate $800,000 in its second year of operation but would need additional revenue through sponsorships, grants and events to cover staffing and maintenance costs. Birthday parties, company events and food trucks could all support the course’s revenue stream.
Beyond recreation, she said the course would also serve as a detention pond to aid in flood prevention.
Nathan Crace, an award-winning golf course architect who worked with the foundation on the study, said the design would incorporate naturalized areas between holes to serve as wildlife habitats and would minimize the use of pesticides and herbicides. The course would be irrigated with treated wastewater rather than drinking water.
“We’re trying to make this golf course fun,” Crace said. “We want especially kids to get out there, have a good time, put a club in their hands, learn how to play golf and learn how to socialize a bit better.”
Crace said the course would be designed for families to play nine holes quickly, with an education component for children and beginners.
Carrillo-Trevino stressed the project is not finalized, saying she still intends to consult with the school district and potential partners before moving forward.
Mayor Ishmael Harris, who supported the project, acknowledged both community pushback and support.
“We have to be responsible,” Harris said. “If it increases the level of quality of life for our community we have to really try to make those projects work.”
The council asked Carrillo-Trevino to present an updated proposal at a July council meeting.
There will be more opportunities for public input as the project progresses, according to the city.
