River Oaks Golf Club Set to Close, Opening Door for New Homes

News Summary

River Oaks Golf Club will close permanently on November 30, 2024, as part of a redevelopment initiative to build nearly 600 new homes on the site. The project, initiated by Chris Manning of Chris Manning Communities, includes plans for expanding local infrastructure as the community transitions from golf to residential living. Despite the impending closure, the club remains committed to quality golfing experiences and will host events to celebrate its legacy.

River Oaks Golf Club Set to Close, Makes Way for New Homes

In a significant shift for the local community, River Oaks Golf Club, known for its splendid 27-hole layout, is poised to close its doors forever on November 30, 2024. Initially slated to shut down on October 31, the club received a brief one-month extension before saying goodbye to its golfing legacy.

A New Chapter for River Oaks

The closure comes as part of an ambitious redevelopment plan aimed at turning the beloved golf course into nearly 600 new single-family homes. The project is led by Chris Manning of Chris Manning Communities, who purchased the remaining 18 holes back in February 2024, igniting the approval and permitting process almost immediately.

Manning’s vision is clear: he hopes to secure all the necessary permits by fall 2024, with the goal of breaking ground on 370 lots shortly thereafter. This transformation is set against a backdrop of changing winds within the area, as more golf courses transition into residential developments.

The History of River Oaks

Originally designed by the noted architect Gene Hamm and inaugurated in 1987, River Oaks expanded to a 27-hole facility with the addition of the Bear nine in 1991. This section was previously sold to Manning in 2021 for a staggering $3 million and later to Mungo Homes in February 2024 for $9.5 million, where plans include further adding 220 lots to the growing community.

As part of the redevelopment, the traffic flow will also be addressed, with plans to expand River Oaks Drive from a two-lane road to a more accommodating four-lane highway.

A Lasting Legacy

Even as the closing date approaches, River Oaks Golf Club remains committed to providing top-tier golfing experiences. With recent investments made in the course, golfers can still enjoy pristine greens. Four greens were resodded with high-quality ultradwarf Bermudagrass this past summer, illustrating the club’s dedication to excellence up until the end.

Scott Taylor, the general manager, has expressed the intention to host a series of commemorative events and tournaments to celebrate the course’s long-standing history. Recently, the club hosted its largest annual fundraising event, benefitting the Folds of Honor Foundation, featuring an impressive 41 foursomes.

The People Behind the Course

Many staff members at River Oaks have dedicated over a decade to the club, with intentions of remaining until its final day. However, with the impending closure, golf instructors are left to ponder their next moves and may need to seek new venues to teach and share their passion for the game.

A Broader Trend

The closing of River Oaks isn’t an isolated incident. The Myrtle Beach area, well-known for its numerous golf courses, has seen a growing trend of facilities retrenching into residential housing. Over the past seven years, notable closures such as The Witch Golf Links, Farmstead Golf Links, and Heather Glen Golf Links have occurred, pointing to a transition in community needs and development.

River Oaks Golf Club is situated in a thriving neighborhood that includes multiple housing developments, such as Waterway Plantation, Waterway Palms, and Traditions at Carolina Forest. As the future takes shape, it is clear that the legacy of River Oaks Golf Club will always remain in the hearts of its loyal patrons.

While the golf course may be closing, the community’s memories and the spirit of the game will certainly continue to flourish, finding new avenues and experiences beyond the greens.

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