A Golf Course Reimagined
- sfranklin299
- Nov 14
- 3 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
A Golf Course Reimagined: How Madison's Glen Golf Park is Becoming a Community Hub Madison, Wisconsin | July 2022
Something special is happening at the former Glenway Golf Course. After nearly two years of transformation, The Glen Golf Park is welcoming visitors back to its greens—but this time, it's offering so much more than just 9 holes.
More Than Just a Golf Course
When the Madison Parks Foundation received a $750,000 donation to renovate the aging golf course, the vision extended far beyond replacing divots and updating fairways. The goal? Reimagine what a public golf space could be. "Reimagine the golf course into not just a golf course but a golf park," explains Ty Beck, president of the foundation's board. It's an ambitious concept—creating a space where golf coexists with community gatherings, outdoor yoga, movie nights, and family events.
A Community Effort
While the donation covered course improvements, there wasn't funding to renovate the dated clubhouse. That's when the construction community stepped in with something money can't buy: heart.
The Madison Parks Foundation also contributed additional funds to ensure the patio area and gathering space would be accessible for all visitors—a crucial detail that reflects the project's inclusive vision.
Dan Bertler of Supreme Structures rallied an impressive team of local contractors who donated their time, expertise, and resources to gut the old clubhouse and build something new from the inside out. The list reads like a who's who of Madison construction: Dave Jones Inc, Engelhart Electric, Floor 360, Area Glass, Marling Lumber, Doors and Frames, Hellenbrand Painting, Madison Sheet Metal, County Line Design LLC, Rundle-Spence, and Sketchworks Architecture.
"Everybody stepped up and was really excited to give back to the community and really show that the construction industry cares and that we're here to help," says Blake Herbert, project design expert for Supreme Structures.
As the July 10th grand opening approached, crews worked around the clock to finish the transformation. The new space will be called the Glen House.
A Pandemic Lesson Applied
Eric Knepp, Park Superintendent for the City of Madison, sees the project through a post-pandemic lens.
"What we learned in the pandemic early on is the park system is a great place to gather and be with the people they care about," Knepp reflects. "We think the Glen House and the Glen Golf Park is a great opportunity to do that."
The park's programming reflects this philosophy. Every Sunday afternoon, the course closes to golfers to make room for community events. From sunrise yoga sessions to family movie nights under the stars, the Glen Golf Park is being designed as a true community gathering space.
A Space for Everyone
While golfers can already enjoy the redesigned course, the full vision comes to life on July 10th when the Glen House opens its doors. The message from everyone involved is clear: this isn't just for golfers. It's for families, fitness enthusiasts, movie buffs, and anyone looking for a beautiful outdoor space to connect with their community.
In a time when public spaces feel more precious than ever, The Glen Golf Park stands as a testament to what's possible when a community comes together—one swing, one yoga pose, one movie night at a time.
The Glen Golf Park is located in Madison, Wisconsin. For more information about events and tee times, visit your local Madison Parks website.
