When the PGA of America REACH Foundation decided to hand out their coveted “PGA Places To Play” grants, it was Meadow Park Golf Course that hit the jackpot.
During the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, the Tacoma Parks Foundation, a dedicated nonprofit backing Metro Parks Tacoma, was awarded a $250,000 grant to bolster the Meadow Park Golf Course Reimagination Project.
This grand initiative aims to introduce a new 3-hole programming course, set to become a game-changer for the Tacoma and South Puget Sound communities.
Seth Waugh’s Big Announcement
Seth Waugh, CEO of PGA of America, made the monumental announcement at Sahalee Country Club, presenting the hefty check to a gathering of representatives from Tacoma Parks Foundation, Metro Parks Tacoma, Pacific Northwest PGA Section, and Meadow Park Golf Course.
This grant is earmarked for the creation of a 3-hole programming course, a significant piece of the broader Meadow Park Golf Course Reimagination Project.
Community-Focused Vision
The new 3-hole programming course isn’t just about adding holes; it’s about expanding access and inclusivity.
By fostering a sense of belonging and providing opportunities for underrepresented communities, the initiative stands as a beacon of inclusivity.
Beneficiaries of this addition include PGA Jr. League, Drive, Chip & Putt, PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), PGA Family Golf, First Tee South Puget Sound, and more.
“Meadow Park Golf Course has ensured equitable access to its facilities, programs and resources within the community for decades,” said Seth Waugh.
“Places To Play was created to help courses such as Meadow Park, that use the game to create a positive, inclusive and invitational environment for their community.”
“It’s a great honour and pleasure to work alongside the Pacific Northwest PGA Section, Metro Parks Tacoma and the Tacoma Parks Foundation to aid in their continued efforts in impacting the game and countless lives for generations to come.”
A Legacy of Inclusivity
Since its establishment in 1915, Meadow Park Golf Course has been more than just a golf course; it’s a community hub.
Owned by Metro Parks Tacoma, this 27-hole public golf facility has been a pillar of inclusivity in the South Puget Sound area.
The vision for Meadow Park is to solidify its status as a community-based, world-class public golf course that welcomes everyone.
“On behalf of Meadow Park Golf Course & Metro Parks Tacoma, we are thrilled and deeply grateful for the PGA REACH Foundation Places To Play Grant,” said Meadow Park Director of Golf Erik Haag, PGA.
“This funding is a game-changer for our golf facility and community. The impact of this grant will be profound, providing our community with continued access to affordable golf and enriching the lives of many.”
“We are excited for the development of a 3-hole programming golf course, designed to introduce the game of golf to new players, teach valuable skills and sportsmanship and ensure ongoing youth programming.”
Reimagining Meadow Park
The Meadow Park Golf Course Reimagination Project, which kicked off in 2023, is no small feat. The project includes a host of additions and improvements, such as:
- Renovations of the Championship 18-hole and Executive 9-hole Golf Courses
- Addition of a Full-Service, Multi-Level Driving Range
- Construction of a New Multi-Function Clubhouse
- Creation of New Program Spaces
- Enhancement of Practice Areas
- Modernization of the Maintenance Facility
- Expansion of Parking Facilities
With community collaboration set to begin in 2024, the first phase is expected to cost around $40 million and take approximately two years to complete.
The Pacific Northwest PGA Section is working closely with Metro Parks Tacoma and the Tacoma Parks Foundation, which is also pursuing additional funding through state and federal grants and bond financing.
This grant marks a significant milestone for Meadow Park Golf Course, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
The Tacoma Parks Foundation’s partnership with the PGA of America REACH Foundation is poised to transform Meadow Park into an even more vibrant community asset, ensuring that the love of golf continues to flourish in Tacoma and beyond.
