West Ridge Golf Course closed during construction

A popular local spot for sledding is closed to the public this winter season.

The West Ridge Golf Course has been a fixture for local outdoor recreation in the city for 20 years. But this year, city officials would like to remind residents to stay out of the golf course property during construction.

West Valley City Parks and Recreation Director Kevin Astill said the area is dangerous right now and has been blocked off with signs and fencing.

“We’re rebuilding the whole golf course,” Astill said. “It’s just a big construction zone right now. We think people should stay out of there.”

West Ridge Golf Course is owned, operated and maintained by West Valley City.

On Oct. 1, West Ridge was closed for reconstruction and renovation after it was determined that the Utah Department of Transportation would build a segment of new roadway through the western section of the course.

When complete, Mountain View Corridor will follow a path along 5000 South between 5900 West to 6400 West.

To compensate West Valley City for the golf course property lost to new roadway development, UDOT purchased and deeded property north of West Ridge to the city.

Astill said the West Ridge is closure may be inconvenient for residents, but the project is necessary to move the course and accommodate the UDOT.

“We know that transportation needs to happen and the road needed to be built,” Astill said.

This fall, construction work began to completely rebuild the golf course. The budget for the redesign project is estimated to cost approximately $18 million.

Astill said when West Ridge is complete the property would include new landscaping and car, and officials would move the 18 holes and completely reroute the course. The clubhouse will also be remodeled, but should stay in its current location.

Currently, the golf course is completely closed to the public.

The contractor working on golf course reconstruction is responsible to put storm water prevention measures in place and adequate fencing to close the area while bulldozers, earthmovers and other large equipment are on the site.

West Ridge Golf Course is scheduled to reopen for residents in July 2013.

But until work at the golf course is finished, city officials have a reminder for residents.

“Please stay out of it while it’s a construction zone,” Astill said.