Great Hills Country Club (GHCC), nestled in the rolling hills of Northwest Austin, Texas, is embarking on an ambitious $22.3 million enhancement project as part of its Great Hills master plan. The initiative includes significant upgrades to the club’s 18-hole championship golf course, clubhouse, and racquet sports facilities, all designed to meet the evolving needs of members while ensuring sustainability and modern functionality.
Golf Course Enhancements Led by Renowned Architect Chet Williams
The centerpiece of the improvement project is a comprehensive renovation of the golf course, led by acclaimed golf course architect Chet Williams. Williams, celebrated for designing three of the top five courses in Texas, brings a wealth of expertise in creating golf experiences that balance playability, aesthetics, and sustainability. His work at GHCC aims to transform the course into one of Austin’s premier golf destinations.
Key updates include:
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- Modern Irrigation System: Replacing the aging infrastructure to improve water conservation and maintain lush course conditions year-round.
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- Greens and Bunkers Renovations: Upgrading these essential elements to enhance playability and align with members’ feedback.
- Improved Practice Facilities: Expanding the short-game area and upgrading the driving range with cutting-edge technology like TrackMan/TopTracer, catering to golfers of all skill levels.
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The renovations will also address long-term sustainability challenges, with input from Kimley-Horn, a leading water engineering and design firm, ensuring that the course remains resilient to changing environmental conditions. Construction is set to begin in October 2025, with a grand reopening planned for spring 2027.
Reimagined Clubhouse for Modern Member Needs
In addition to the golf course enhancements, GHCC is reimagining its clubhouse spaces to better accommodate the diverse needs of its members. Plans include:
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- A casual family bistro, offering a relaxed dining atmosphere for members and their families.
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- A quiet dining room, providing an intimate setting for more refined gatherings.
- A new outdoor bar and children’s playscape, designed to enhance the club’s appeal to families and create a vibrant social environment.
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These updates reflect the club’s commitment to increasing member satisfaction and encouraging more frequent use of the facilities.
Expanding Tennis and Pickleball Facilities
GHCC is making its largest-ever investment in racquet sports, with plans to add four tennis courts and eight dedicated pickleball courts. These new facilities will support the growing popularity of racquet sports among members and provide more opportunities for lessons, leagues, and recreational play.
Sustainability and Member-Driven Planning
The development of the Great Hills 2030 master plan has been a collaborative effort, with input from members, industry experts, and sustainability consultants. A Task Force on Golf Course Sustainability and Playability was established to ensure that the renovations address both environmental challenges and members’ concerns. Experts like Curtis Tyrell, with 30 years of experience in golf course management and renovation, were brought on board to oversee the project’s execution.
“This significant milestone — led by best-in-the-business Golf Course Architect Chet Williams — will ensure the longevity of our club for many generations to come,” said Gaith Alkadi, General Manager/COO of GHCC. “This transformative project is going to keep Great Hills Country Club as one of the premier golf courses in Austin.”
A Club with a Legacy and Vision
Since its founding in 1973 and becoming member-owned in 1985, GHCC has been a cornerstone of the Austin community. The club offers a range of memberships, from social to full golf access, and is known for its picturesque setting and vibrant community. With the launch of this project, GHCC is poised to remain a top choice for private club membership in the region.
Construction will be completed in phases, with updates to both the golf course and clubhouse reflecting GHCC’s commitment to preserving its legacy while adapting to modern needs.
For more information about the club, visit Great Hills Country Club.
