End of River Oaks Golf Club: Housing Development Ahead

News Summary

River Oaks Golf Club, a cherished local golf course since 1987, will permanently close its doors on October 31, 2024, to make way for 600 single-family homes. A local developer has acquired the property and is beginning the permitting process to transform the grounds into residential lots. The closure marks a shift in the community’s landscape, moving from recreational space to housing as local demand for homes increases.

End of the Fairway: River Oaks Golf Club to Close for Housing Development

The peaceful sound of birds chirping and golf balls soaring through the air will soon be a thing of the past at River Oaks Golf Club. Mark your calendars, folks! The beloved golf course, a staple in the community since 1987, is all set to close its doors for good on October 31, 2024 and will be transformed into nearly 600 single-family homes.

This significant change follows the recent purchase of the remaining 18 holes by a local developer in February 2024. The new owner has already kicked off the permitting and approval process with Horry County and anticipates acquiring necessary permits just in time for the fall. The redevelopment plan includes the establishment of 370 lots right on the current golf course grounds, which now consist of the Fox and Otter nines.

Golf Course Management and Maintenance

The course is currently managed through a lease by River Oaks Golf Club LLC, with Scott Taylor at the helm as the general manager. Enthusiastic about leaving a lasting impression, Taylor assured everyone that the course conditions will be well-maintained until the closure date. Recently, four greens have been sodded with Sunday ultradwarf Bermudagrass, highlighting ongoing investments in upkeep.

Beyond maintenance, River Oaks Golf Club has a rich history. Originally established with a 27-hole layout, the course expanded to include the Bear nine in 1991. However, redevelopment of the Bear nine has already begun after it was sold in 2021, creating 220 lots, with Mungo Homes in charge of constructing new homes. Changes are not limited to the golf course itself; River Oaks Drive is also set for a major upgrade, expanding from a two-lane road to four lanes, accommodating increasing traffic from new housing developments.

Community Impact

The area surrounding River Oaks is home to several other residential communities, such as Waterway Plantation and Traditions at Carolina Forest. Although the golf course has been known for its affordable green fees and played host to numerous charity events, including an important fundraiser for the Folds of Honor Foundation, it seems the demand for housing has ultimately outweighed its contributions to the golfing community.

Ahead of the closing date, Taylor has planned a series of commemorative events and tournaments to encourage players to enjoy the course one last time. Many of the staff members, some of whom have been there for over a decade, plan to stay on until the bitter end, while golf instructors face the necessity of finding new venues for lessons once the course closes.

Financial Factors and Local Developments

The selling prices of the properties have been quite eye-catching as well. The initial sale of the Bear nine was for $3 million, but it was later sold to Mungo Homes for $9.5 million. The Fox and Otter nines were acquired by the current owner for $9.2 million, bringing together an impressive 172 acres of land.

As redevelopment looms, the future of the Fox and Otter property remains uncertain. The owner has previously had experience with golf course operations and is considering redevelopment on a case-by-case basis for other courses as well. Sadly, River Oaks Golf Club will soon join the ranks of other golf courses in the area that have shut down for similar housing developments, such as The Witch Golf Links and Indian Wells Golf Club.

The charm and peaceful vibes of River Oaks Golf Club may soon be replaced with homes, but for now, players are urged to take one last swing before it’s too late!

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