By JON WILSON, Consulting Editor, TB Reporter

Practice facilities and better drainage were also part of a renovation project.

ST. PETERSBURG — Twin Brooks Par 3 golf course, 3800 22nd Ave. S, has reopened after a $1.5-million, six-month renovation. The new course offers larger, a manicured platinum Paspalum greens, an expanded, covered 18-station driving range tee and target greens downrange, a three-hole practice course and two practice greens.

The nine-hole course offers 1,068 yards with putting surfaces averaging more than 3,500 square feet, much larger than the former 18-hole, par 3 course. It includes undulating mounds, added to simulate play on a regulation course, a hidden manmade lake adjacent to three holes, and scenic views of Clam Bayou and the Pinellas Trail. All the features are accessible by 12 new electric golf cars or on foot.

“The goal was to create a more open course that is playable and enjoyable for golfers of all levels, with quality putting surfaces, for a great value. An improved practice area, along with a covered driving range tee will make for one of the finest practice facilities in Pinellas County,” said Jeff Hollis, St. Petersburg’s golf course director.

The project also improved drainage at Twin Brooks by implementing a sub-surface drainage system, which will help move water from the turf and allow the course to reopen sooner after heavier rains.

Twin Brooks, the city’s oldest golf course, also is home to more than 1,400 participants of The First Tee of St. Petersburg, a youth development program.  It teaches youngsters golf  and accompanying life skills such as respect, sportsmanship, judgment, honesty, perseverance, integrity, confidence, courtesy and responsibility.

Future plans for The First Tee include building a youth mentoring center at Twin Brooks, where participants may do homework and have access to a computer lab. Groundbreaking for the mentoring center is tentatively scheduled for spring 2016.

For more information and photos of the newly renovated Twin Brooks Golf Course, visit www.golfstpete.com .

St. Petersburg | Sports and Recreation | Golf | TB Reporter

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