Tempe’s Grass Clippings golf course reopening for night play

PHOENIX — Arizona’s premier fully-lit golf course is gearing up for its grand opening.

Come December 1st, Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills in Tempe will make history as the state’s inaugural fully illuminated course. Crews are currently in the final phases of installing state-of-the-art LED lighting throughout the property, which will provide lighting for all 18 tee boxes and greens until midnight.

Located near Mill Avenue and Van Buren Street, right next to the Phoenix Zoo, Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills recently reopened on November 3rd following a four-month renovation project and a recent rye grass overseed.

The extensive renovation also involved the redesign of the ninth hole, the addition of new tee boxes, installation of an advanced irrigation system to enhance turf quality, and the creation of a new 15,000-square-foot practice putting green.

The revamped Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills will offer a unique golfing experience, serving as an executive-length course during the day and transforming into a par-3 (par 54) course at night. Unlike traditional night golf with glow-in-the-dark balls, the property’s LED lighting will ensure that the course is brightly lit, providing a daylight-like experience. Additionally, the facility will include a fully lit 30-bay practice facility.

“We’re thrilled to reopen and showcase the remarkable progress we’ve made on the course and with the new lighting,” commented Grass Clippings CEO Jake Hoselton. “Our agronomy team, led by Director of Agronomy Scott Hebert, has done an incredible job in elevating course conditions and consistency. When we switch on the lights in a few weeks, it’s going to revolutionize golf in the Valley.”

Plans are also underway to add a hilltop bar, a patio bar, a renovated clubhouse, an activity lawn and video display, as well as an entertainment area. Anticipated completion for all these projects is set for fall 2024. Grass Clippings will also function as a concert venue, hosting weekly live music, markets, weddings, and various other events.

Earlier this year, Grass Clippings, a modern golf brand based in Phoenix, entered into a 30-year partnership with the City of Tempe to revamp and expand the 93-acre city-owned golf course that was originally a nine-hole course designed by Milton Coggins in 1960. The second nine holes were added in 1987.

After announcing a $15 million renovation plan for Tempe Rolling Hills Golf Course, Grass Clippings commenced construction in July following its acquisition of the former Rolling Hills Golf Course. Scottsdale-based Troon also took over management of daily operations at the same time.

For those eager to experience this groundbreaking golfing destination, tee times can be reserved online, with play available nightly until midnight starting in December.

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