‘A game-changer’: PGA grant helping fund Meadow Park’s three-hole programming course
One of South Tacoma’s longest-running public golf facilities will soon receive a considerable facelift.
A full-scope project is still to come, but on Tuesday, The Tacoma Parks Foundation accepted a $250,000 grant from PGA of America — allowing for the construction of a three-hole programming course at the 108-year-old facility, among other facilities upgrades.
The PGA Places to Play grant, part of PGA’s REACH Foundation, and the three-hole course it will fund are the first steps in Meadow Park’s “Reimagination Project,” a two-year, $40-million renovation that includes a new clubhouse, updated driving range, and remake of the executive Williams Nine course adjacent to the Championship 18.
Joined by representatives of the Tacoma Parks Foundation, Metro Parks Tacoma, and PGA’s Pacific Northwest Section, Meadow Park director of golf Erik Haag accepted the quarter-million dollar check from PGA of America CEO Seth Waugh at Tuesday’s press conference at Sahalee Country Club in Sammamish.
“This funding is a game-changer for our golf facility and community,” Haag said. “The impact of this grant will be profound.”
The planned three-hole addition spans the south perimeter of the property, near the current range, and its construction supports Meadow Park’s vision to expand accessible, affordable golf within the community. The current, 27-hole facility debuted in 1915 and remains one of the South Sound’s busiest and better-played tracks.
The myriad of programs set to benefit from the impending addition of Meadow Park’s three-hole programming course, aimed to welcome first-time golfers to the tee: First Tee South Puget Sound (headquartered, conveniently, at Meadow Park), PGA Jr. League, PGA Family Golf, PGA HOPE (Helping our Patriots Everywhere), and Drive, Chip, & Putt.
“Meadow Park Golf Course has ensured equitable access to its facilities, programs and resources within the community for decades,” Waugh said in a press release. “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 honor 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.”
Construction will require two years to complete and is projected to begin before 2026. Meadow Park has yet to finalize the entirety of its $40-million ‘reimagination’ plan, though approved enhancements include:
Renovations of Championship 18-Hole and Executive 9-Hole Golf Courses
Addition of Full-Service, Multi-Level Driving Range
New Multi-Function Clubhouse
New Program Spaces
Enhanced Practice Areas
Modernized Maintenance Facility
Expanded Parking
Metro Parks and the Tacoma Parks Foundation are actively working to secure additional state and federal funding.
“(We’re) 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,” Haag said.
