Groundbreaking delayed as Oakland Hills asks members to OK another $22M

Breaking news Alert: Oakland Hills Country Club’s highly anticipated new clubhouse and amenities will be delayed as the project faces major cost overruns. To cover the additional expenses, the club is seeking financial contributions from its members.

Originally scheduled to break ground this month, the project’s cost has soared past $100 million, requiring members to cough up nearly $56 million in capital dues and equity assessments. Despite initial estimates of around $80 million with insurance covering more than half, a series of unanticipated expenses have caused the total cost to skyrocket.

Now, members are being asked to pay an additional $230 a month in dues until a $40.3 million loan is fully repaid. Furthermore, the club has seen a dramatic increase in equity assessments, potentially leading to a significant rise in costs for individual members.

To further complicate matters, disciplinary action has been threatened for any members sharing details about the project with the public. The entire project is now in the hands of the club’s members, who are set to vote on its future at the end of November.

The new 110,000-square-foot clubhouse plans include three kitchens, ballrooms, locker rooms, and enhanced facilities for members. The project, nicknamed the ‘Next 100 Project’ in honor of the original clubhouse, is expected to be completed by 2026, after obtaining the necessary approvals from local government boards.

With Oakland Hills’ storied history of hosting U.S. Golf Association championships, the future plans include hosting the 2024 U.S. Junior Amateur before launching significant renovations to its headquarters. Along with a recent $12.1 million restoration of the South Course, the club strives to remain a top destination for golf events.

To close the chapter of destruction caused by the fire, the club aims to rebuild with its members’ support and looks to add yet another chapter to its rich history, as John Bodenhamer, the USGA’s chief championships officer, described it in optimistic tones.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller takes readers to the greens with his passion for golf. He offers coverage of major golf tournaments, player achievements, and insights into the sport’s rich history, making him a trusted source for golf enthusiasts.