HIGHLAND HILLS, Ohio — After a search by the City of Cleveland for a vendor to lease, revitalize and manage the operations of the historic Highland Park Golf Course, Mayor Justin Bibb has found the city's top pick.
Mayor Bibb announced on Thursday that after a competitive search, they have selected the nonprofit Highland Park Golf Foundation to lead the revitalization of Highland Park Golf Course.
On Jan. 23, the City of Cleveland will introduce legislation to enter into a Qualified Management Agreement with the Highland Park Golf Foundation.
“The Highland Park Golf Foundation’s proposal reflects the commitment to celebrating the course’s rich history as a minority golf course,” said Mayor Justin M. Bibb. “We are thrilled with the team that has come together in the interest of preserving and elevating this legacy asset.”
After requesting proposals in September, the City of Cleveland received six. The top choice was made by the selection committee which was chaired by Chief Operating Officer Bonnie Teeuwen.
“We feel confident that the Highland Park Golf Foundation’s passion for the course, in partnership with Troon’s expertise across the country, will result in an elevated golf experience at affordable prices for Clevelanders,” said Cleveland’s Chief Operating Officer Bonnie Teeuwen, “We believe it will also ultimately help the City’s bottom line.”
According to the City of Cleveland, Highland Park Golf Foundation is intending to contract with Troon, who manages over 750 courses worldwide and operates five courses that host PGA, LPGA or Senior PGA tournaments.
The plans for the golf course include honoring the course's heritage and legacy, maintaining the 36 holes and staying committed to maintaining and expanding affordable access to golf.
In a proposal, the Highland Park Golf Foundation included a 5-year timeline to make course and clubhouse improvements, build a driving range, construct a chipping and putting center as well as become certified in the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program.
Throughout the execution of the plan, officials say that there will be "minimal interruption to course play."