Hershey's Spring Creek, first public course for kids, will be renovated

The Hershey Trust Company in Hershey, Pa., plans to renovate the historic Spring Creek Golf Course -- the nation's first public golf course opened to boys and girls under 18 years old.

"Seventy-five years ago, this course was opened to boys and girls and, with this investment, we're going to make sure young golfers and their families will be able to enjoy a much improved course for the next 75 years," said Rob Vowler, Chief Executive Officer of Hershey Trust Company.

The nine-hole layout is managed by Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company and owned by Hershey Trust.

Vowler said the renovations "are extensive" and include three new hole designs, restoration of six existing holes, a tee-through-green irrigation system, turf grass replacement throughout the course and the addition of 220 playing yards. Work is set to begin this fall and is expected to be complete by July 2006. The par-33 course will play to a new total of 2,200 yards.

Golf course architect Tom Clark has been contracted to redesign the course. In addition to the three newly designed holes, Vowler said other holes are being modified and the course will receive extensive turf grass replacement.

Hershey Country Club, also owned by Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. The course features 36 holes on its famed East and West courses.

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