Naperville Country Club Awarded Renovation of the Year

Naperville Country Club, a private club approaching 90 years old was recently awarded the Golf Inc. Renovation of the Year in the private course category at a ceremony at the World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Florida.

The family oriented golf and social club in the Chicago suburbs was renovated by world-renowned architect Steve Forrest of Arthur Hills/Steve Forrest & Associates. The $7 million dollar project was launched to fix problems such as a sub-standard driving range facility, a poorly situated maintenance area and a course that had ceased to be enjoyable for all members and guests.

With a little money and expertise, the renovation transformed Naperville CC into a modern-day masterpiece with an updated layout and outstanding auxiliary facilities. The project spanned a little less than two years (July 2006 - May 2008) and included work on 60 bunkers, 150 tree transplants and the removal of 330 trees.

"With the playability concerns with an old golf course routing, this renovation greatly improved this facility," said Tommy Sasser, one of the competition's judges. "This is a very tight space in today's routings and the architect did an outstanding job of re-positioning this course."

The 124-acre course reflects Forrest's desire to work with the natural contours of the land and create a more up-to-date golf course. The forward-thinking and ambitious rebuild meant rerouting 13 holes, rebuilding all 18 green and tee complexes and installing a new irrigation system.

Judging by the recent surge in membership, the renovation did its job. According to Golf Inc., the club has generated more than 43 new full members, and guest fee revenue is up nearly 100 percent.

Naperville CC is now a modern club with a new championship golf course, and a tradition that dates back to 1921, as well as a comfortable atmosphere that makes new members feel at home.

For more information on the club, visit www.napervillecc.org.