CASE STUDY: SHERRILL PARK COURSE 1 & 2, CITY OF RICHARDSON, TEXAS

    In a market oversaturated with golf courses and experiencing an economic downturn, Richardson City public golf courses, Sherrill Park Course 1 and Sherrill Park Course 2, needed to be renovated to continue producing revenue in this competitive market. The city first hired Weibring-Wolfard Golf Design to formulate a master plan to address Course 1’s problems, including poor drainage, failing greens, inadequate practice facilities and various safety issues.
     As a result of the design team’s work, the renovated Sherrill Park Course 1 saw an increased use of the practice area and was able to raise green fees from $17.00 to $30.00. In addition, the course now has minimal rain closings due to the improved drainage system, better greens and no more safety concerns. Because of these positive changes by Weibring-Wolfard, Sherrill Park Course 1 generated enhanced revenue and rounds.
     After finishing Course 1, the city of Richardson again turned to Weibring-Wolfard Golf Design to renovate a course, this time focusing on Sherrill Park Course 2. Facing similar challenges as Course 1, such as drainage and greens issues, as well as landfill problems, Weibring-Wolfard Golf Design again proved successful. When the course reopened after renovations the fee was raised from $17.00 to $28.00. Additionally, land fill issues were resolved, irrigation storage increased, and new routing added length and variety to the course.
     The combined revenue generated by the renovated golf courses allowed Sherrill Park to pay for the operating budget and pay debt while still allowing for continued capital improvement. With a vast knowledge renovating a wide array of courses, both public and private, Weibring-Wolfard Golf Design understands that an economically sound course is a successful course.

“The improvements made by Weibring-Wolfard Golf Design to both golf courses allowed Sherrill Park to excel during a very difficult time in the golf industry. The golf market was vastly overbuilt at the turn of the 21st century and because of 9/11 the golf market hit its low. Because of all the improvements and the value the consumer received, Sherrill Park continued to have success in creating revenue and rounds during this difficult time. Without all the significant improvements and the vision provided by Weibring-Wolfard Golf Design, Sherrill Park would not have withstood the impacts of the golf market during that time. The results of the renovations speak volumes when you look at the success of Sherrill Park.”

     Ronny Glanton

     PGA Head Golf Professional

     Sherrill Park Golf Course City of Richardson