Bellevue considering improvements to golf course driving range

Published 12:07 pm Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Bellevue is considering potential improvements to the Bellevue Golf Course driving range, including adding hitting stations and lights. The changes could improve the facility’s function and aesthetics and generate additional revenue.

At meetings this spring, city officials will seek opinions from residents, including Bridle Trail residents living near the course, located at 5500 140th Ave. N.E.

The driving range was built in 1969 and is limited in space, heat and lighting. During peak season, customers often wait up to 30 minutes to warm up or practice at the range. Potential improvements would expand the number of hitting stations from 24 to 47, many covered. Lighting would allow longer operating hours in the spring, fall and winter.

The Parks and Community Services Department has been exploring options to improve the driving range at the Bellevue Golf Course for several years. Last fall David A. Clark Architects completed a preliminary schematic design and cost estimate for expansion of the driving range.

The proposed driving range improvements would increase annual golf revenues by an estimated $350,000, based on driving range revenues at other courses in the area managed by Premier Golf Centers, which operates Bellevue’s course.

The proposed driving range improvements would cost about $2.1 million. They would last 20 to 30 years and additional revenue could cover the expense in about seven years.

Public input will be sought through regular meetings of the Bridle Trails Community Association and from two additional public meetings at the course.

Following the public outreach, Parks staff plans to return to the council in May or June. If the council approves an architecture and design contract, expansion of the driving range could begin sometime in 2010.

Course information is available at http://bellevuewa.gov/bellevue_golf_course.htm.