Almost three years after the groundbreaking for Knott County’s golf practice facility, officials say it is nearing completion and will open in the spring.
“A person could actually hit golf balls there now, but we think it would be best to wait until spring to give the Bermuda and fairways time to mature,” Judge-Executive Randy Thompson said.
The practice range is located just past the Sportsplex on Chestnut Mountain. It was financed entirely with grant money.
Donations of time and equipment from several companies were a vital ele- ment of the project. Dozer work was provided by Fra- sure Creek, ICG and TECO coal companies. Contrac- tors like Miller Brothers, Landmark, Mountain Exca- vation and Universal Con- struction volunteered use of trucks to haul topsoil.
Among the problems that delayed the facility’s completion was difficulty in finding an adequate qual- ity and quantity of topsoil, Judge Thompson said. It ultimately came from dif- ferent areas of the county — Mousie, Quicksand, Rock Fork and Dry Creek.
“Mother Nature didn’t help us,” the judge added. “It rained when we needed it to be dry and it was dry when we needed rain. I think we’re finally getting the grass established.”
The sprinkler system has been installed and construction is beginning on 26 covered stations for tee boxes. An office building has not yet been built, but the judge said that should take very little time.
In addition to the covered boxes, the facility has practice greens, bunkers, and a large grass tee area.
“It’s going to be one of the nicest golf practice facilities within a two-hour drive,” the judge stated. “I’m convinced golfers in three or four surrounding counties will visit — and non-golfers will discover it’s a great stress reliever to come up and hit a bucket of golf balls. We’re already looking forward to spring!”
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