Tulsa, Oklahoma, October 7, 2025
Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa has announced a $5 million renovation project that aims to modernize its historic golf course while preserving its original design by Perry Maxwell. The upgrades will enhance course infrastructure, sustainability, and accessibility, including new eco-friendly irrigation systems, modernized bunkers, and expanded practice facilities. The renovations are set to be completed by summer 2026, with the course hosting the Oklahoma State Amateur tournament later that year.
Tulsa’s Southern Hills Country Club Announces $5 Million Golf Course Renovation
Tulsa, Oklahoma – On October 7, 2025, Southern Hills Country Club unveiled plans for a significant $5 million expansion and renovation of its iconic 18-hole golf course. This project aims to modernize the historic layout while honoring its original design elements, ensuring it remains a cherished venue for golfers of all levels.
The upgrades focus on enhancing the course’s infrastructure and sustainability. Key improvements include modernized bunkers to improve durability and aesthetics, expanded practice facilities to support skill development, and advanced eco-friendly irrigation systems tailored to address Oklahoma’s unpredictable weather patterns. These changes will make the course more resilient to droughts and heavy rains, promoting consistent playability throughout the year.
Preservation of Historical Integrity
The course, originally designed by renowned golf architect Perry Maxwell in 1936, holds a special place in Oklahoma’s golfing heritage. The renovation team has committed to preserving Maxwell’s challenging layout, which emphasizes strategic shot-making and precision. Engineers have consulted original historical blueprints to guide the work, ensuring that the course’s character—known for its rolling fairways, strategic hazards, and demanding greens—remains intact. This approach balances tradition with necessary updates, preventing any alterations that could dilute the course’s historical significance.
Club leadership has stressed the importance of maintaining accessibility for players across skill levels. New junior tees will be introduced to encourage family participation and youth involvement in golf, fostering a new generation of enthusiasts. Additionally, the greens will receive upgrades to improve smoothness and speed, allowing for better roll and truer putting surfaces that test even seasoned players.
Sustainability and Community Impact
In line with broader efforts in golf course management, the project incorporates environmentally conscious features. Native grasses will be planted throughout the course to minimize water consumption, aligning with the Oklahoma Golf Association‘s initiatives for sustainable practices. These measures not only reduce operational costs but also protect local ecosystems by decreasing reliance on synthetic turf and excessive watering. The eco-friendly irrigation system, equipped with smart sensors, will optimize water distribution based on real-time weather data, further combating climate variability in the region.
Local golfers have shown strong support for the initiative, particularly appreciating the enhancements to greens and the addition of family-friendly elements. The renovated course is scheduled for completion by summer 2026, positioning Southern Hills to host the Oklahoma State Amateur tournament later that year. This event will draw competitors from across the state, highlighting the club’s upgraded facilities on a larger stage.
Broader Implications for Tulsa’s Golf Scene
The announcement has generated positive attention within golfing circles, underscoring Southern Hills’ role as a premier destination. By investing in these improvements, the club aims to elevate Tulsa’s profile in the sport, attracting visitors and boosting local tourism. The project reflects a growing trend among historic courses to adapt to modern demands without losing their foundational appeal.
Historically, Southern Hills has been a cornerstone of Oklahoma golf since its opening in 1936. Maxwell’s design incorporated the natural contours of the Tulsa landscape, creating a layout that has challenged professionals and amateurs alike over decades. Past renovations have been minimal, focusing on maintenance rather than large-scale changes, making this $5 million endeavor a landmark update.
The initiative also responds to golfer feedback gathered over recent years, addressing wear from increased play and evolving environmental needs. With Oklahoma’s climate becoming more erratic—marked by prolonged dry spells and intense storms—these upgrades ensure long-term viability. Expanded practice areas will include dedicated zones for short-game work and driving ranges, benefiting club members and tournament participants.
As preparations begin, the club anticipates minimal disruption to daily operations, with phased construction to keep portions of the course open. This thoughtful planning allows ongoing enjoyment while the transformation unfolds. For Tulsa residents and golf enthusiasts statewide, the renovation promises a revitalized Southern Hills that blends legacy with innovation, securing its place in the sport’s future.
FAQ
- What is the investment amount for the Southern Hills Country Club renovation?
- Tulsa’s Southern Hills Country Club announced a major expansion on October 7, 2025, investing $5 million to renovate its historic 18-hole course.
- Who designed the original Southern Hills golf course?
- Designed by golf legend Perry Maxwell in 1936, the upgrades include modernized bunkers, expanded practice facilities, and eco-friendly irrigation systems to combat Oklahoma’s variable climate.
- What are the main upgrades in the renovation project?
- The upgrades include modernized bunkers, expanded practice facilities, and eco-friendly irrigation systems to combat Oklahoma’s variable climate.
- How does the project address sustainability?
- This initiative aligns with Oklahoma Golf Association’s push for sustainable course management, incorporating native grasses to reduce water usage.
- What events will the renovated course host?
- The project, set to complete by summer 2026, will host the Oklahoma State Amateur later that year.
- Are there features for junior golfers?
- Local golfers expressed excitement over improved greens and new junior tees promoting family involvement.
- How is historical preservation handled in the renovation?
- Engineers consulted historical blueprints to maintain Maxwell’s vision, ensuring the course remains a test of strategy and precision.
| Feature | Description | Timeline/Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Investment | $5 million expansion | Announced October 7, 2025 |
| Course Design | Original by Perry Maxwell (1936) | Preserved via historical blueprints |
| Bunkers | Modernized for durability | Enhances playability |
| Practice Facilities | Expanded areas | Supports all skill levels |
| Irrigation System | Eco-friendly, climate-adaptive | Combats Oklahoma’s variable climate |
| Sustainability | Native grasses integration | Reduces water usage; aligns with Oklahoma Golf Association |
| Junior Tees | New additions | Promotes family involvement |
| Completion | Summer 2026 | Hosts Oklahoma State Amateur |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Ardmore Plans Renovations for Dornick Hills Golf Course
