A one-of-a-kind golf course could be bringing golfers and more big businesses to Baytown. Build Baytown I, a group made up of three companies made a presentation during Thursday’s council meeting. This was the public’s first look at the proposed 18-hole golf course that would be built on the grounds of the former Evergreen golf course.
The new course, called T-36 at Baytown, is a double-loop concept, using the 105-plus acres in a first-of- its-kind way. The innovative idea merges two holes into one area, while keeping both unique. The Build Baytown I group is made up of expert golf and business developers, golf course operators, a veteran golf course architect and others. All of them have interests in companies and golf courses across the country. One of the businesses also works for the Houston Astros and Dynamo.
While the area could be used to create a traditional 9-hole or a Par 3 golf course, this innovative idea would allow for a tournament-friendly, fully operational golf course. This would bring back golf tournaments played in other communities and would allow high school players to have a home course.
Mark Mattingly with Landscapes Unlimited said, “This project has captured the excitement of something I’ve never seen before.” Landscapes Unlimited owns 10 private and public golf facilities while managing more than 50 in 22 states. Mattingly says they are not interested in building a course and then leaving town. They will have a local and regional support team that will focus on operations. As for future plans, Mattingly added, “We have a built-in master plan to prevent the course from wearing out.”
Speaking of future plans, the goal is for the golf course to be an entertainment hub. David Hinkle, Co-founder of The Outlet Leasing Group, says hotels and entertainment businesses have already expressed interest in being part of the project.
Golf is also very popular right now. Jeff Tinnell, a television producer with more than 30 years of experience, says there is an audience for a live concept show that would showcase the golf course from beginning of concept until the end of construction.
So where does the proposal go from here? City leadership, along with the development team, are still negotiating elements of the agreement, which will come before council for discussion and potential adoption soon. Many residents who spoke at the council meeting supported the idea of bringing golf back to Baytown. Mayor Brandon Capetillo said, “This golf course would be a catalyst for development in a side of town that has been underdeveloped. It would be beneficial for our citizens and the area.”