Long-term plan outlines transition from 18-hole course to 9-hole course with reduced groundwater pumping, improved ecology and water management, and expanded trails and winter recreation opportunities
Posted on 8 September, 2022Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) Commissioners approved the Hiawatha Golf Course Master Plan at their regular Board meeting on Sept. 7, 2022.
The long-term plan outlines transitioning the course from its current 18-hole configuration to 9 holes with reduced groundwater pumping, improved ecology and water management, and expanded trails and recreation opportunities. In addition to the 9-hole course, the plan includes a driving range and practice facilities that are aimed at introducing new players to the sport in an unintimidating and welcoming space, and interpretive information and exposing visitors to the rich history of Black golfers at the course.
MPRB staff and outside experts studied conditions at Hiawatha Golf Course as part of an effort to create a sustainable plan for the course following catastrophic flooding in 2014. A Community Advisory Committee (CAC) was formed in 2018 to make recommendations for the new Hiawatha Golf Course Master Plan. The CAC concluded its work in December 2019 and a draft plan was published for public comments in 2020.
The plan did not pass a vote by Park Commissioners in July 2021, but a related measure that renamed the clubhouse after renowned Black golfer Solomon Hughes, Sr. did pass. New signage and exhibits celebrating Black golfers at Hiawatha and in Minneapolis were installed in 2022.
The Hiawatha Golf Course Master Plan will guide long-term improvements at the course, same as all MPRB properties are guided by community-vetted and Park Commissioner-approved Master Plans. Currently there are no funds allocated toward the changes outlined in the plan and the course will remain at 18 holes until funding is secured.
Use the links below to view the full plan, an executive summary of the plan, and a statement by MPRB Superintendent Al Bangoura.