MPRB Approves Hiawatha Golf Course Master Plan
Long-term plan outlines transition from 18-hole course to 9-hole course with reduced groundwater pumping, improved ecology and water management, and expanded trails and winter recreation opportunities
Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board approves Hiawatha Golf Course Master Plan
Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) Commissioners approved the Hiawatha Golf Course Master Plan at their regular Board meeting on Sept. 7, 2022.
The long-term plan outlines transitioning the course from its current 18-hole configuration to 9 holes with reduced groundwater pumping, improved ecology and water management, and expanded trails and recreation opportunities. In addition to the 9-hole course, the plan includes a driving range and practice facilities that are aimed at introducing new players to the sport in an unintimidating and welcoming space, and interpretive information and exposing visitors to the rich history of Black golfers at the course.
The Hiawatha Golf Course Master Plan will guide long-term improvements at the course, same as all MPRB properties are guided by community-vetted and Park Commissioner-approved Master Plans. Currently there are no funds allocated toward the changes outlined in the plan and the course will remain at 18 holes until funding is secured.
Use the links below to view the full plan, an executive summary of the plan, and a statement by MPRB Superintendent Al Bangoura.
“This process has been gut-wrenching for communities of color, including the Black community who embraces Hiawatha Golf Course for its historical significance as the one of the first courses to admit Black golfers, as well as the 75-year history of tournaments that continue to honor this legacy. It has also been traumatic for the Indigenous community who seeks to return Hiawatha to its natural state, creating a place to honor ancestral land and gather in community among clean water and wildlife.”
WHO
Organizations involved with the Master Plan Amendment
Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, City of Minneapolis,
Minnehaha Creek Watershed District, Bancroft Neighborhood Association,
Field Regina Northrup Neighborhood Group, Hale Page Diamond Lake Community Association, Nokomis East Neighborhood Association, Standish-Ericsson Neighborhood Association
WHERE
WHEN
2014: Catastrophic flooding. MPRB staff and outside experts study conditions.
2018: Community Advisory Committee (CAC) formed to make recommendations for the new HGC Master Plan.
2019: CAC concludes work.
2020: Draft plan was published for public comments in 2020.
2021: The plan did not pass a vote by Park Commissioners, but a related measure that renamed the clubhouse after renowned Black golfer Solomon Hughes, Sr. did.
2022: New signage and exhibits celebrating Black golfers at Hiawatha and in Minneapolis installed.
Read More about Hiawatha Golf Course
