The Woodlands Township Board has approved initial terms for a new public nine-hole golf course within the planned 208-acre South Gosling Park. The project, a public-private partnership with Houston-based Early Bird, aims to expand recreational access while limiting township liability. Final contract approval is expected next month.
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Officials announced Thursday that the Woodlands Township Board of Directors has given the green light for the terms related to the construction of a new public golf course, which marks an important step forward for a major recreational initiative planned for South Gosling Park.
A 50-acre, nine-hole course is set to be the centerpiece of the township's ambitious plan for a 208-acre park located near the Village of Creekside Park. The board is set to conclude its agreement with the Houston-based operator Early Bird during a meeting scheduled for next month.
Board Chairman Brad Bailey characterized the initiative as a major advancement for the community. “This is truly a significant victory for us,” Bailey stated. “This arrangement is a collaboration between public and private sectors, which means our liability is significantly restricted.”
According to township leaders, the course aims to broaden access to golf while maintaining affordability. In a departure from municipally operated facilities, the course will be managed by Early Bird, the same organization that oversees Houston’s East River 9 Golf Course.
Chris Nunes, the chief operating officer of the township, has previously detailed extra features associated with the development, such as a restaurant and pickleball courts. The park is set to feature lighting, enabling residents to enjoy the facilities even after dark.
The idea for the golf course took shape earlier this year after negotiations were approved by the board and a special committee was established in May. A gathering of board members and residents examined the potential for a par-three public course designed to meet the needs of the community.
Bailey highlighted that maintaining the natural character of The Woodlands is a top priority. “We are advocating for The Woodlands to truly represent itself on this course,” he stated, highlighting the township’s recent commitment to tree planting initiatives.
In July 2023, a transfer agreement with Howard Hughes facilitated the acquisition of land for South Gosling Park. If realized, the park would emerge as the township's largest, covering an area more than eight times that of the existing 25-acre park.
The golf course contract is expected to receive final approval in the upcoming weeks.
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