Lexington officials have taken another step, or in this case, kick, to expand uses at area public golf courses. Footgolf, where players use their feet instead of golf clubs, is now in place at Meadowbrook’s par three course. A similar layout is already in place at Gay Brewer-Picadome Golf Course.
Parks and Recreation Director Monica Conrad says Meadowbrook has historically been the place for young people to learn golf while also attracting senior players. “We also heard that more people wanted exposure to this green space, this beautiful green space throughout Lexington at our five golf courses and we found that adding footgolf here at Meadowbrook was a way to get more golfers out on the course,” said Conrad.
Conrad says there are also plans for 5k and 10k races at Lakeside Golf Course this summer.
There’s been much discussion for several years about government costs to keep all public courses open. In her proposed budget, Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton is not suggesting closing any courses.
Lexington Golf Services Manager Curtis Mitchell says footgolf will mean more revenue to Meadowbrook. Council Member Susan Lamb says this is one way to preserve green space, cover operational costs, and keep courses open. “I think that as long as we keep the conversations open and the dialogue going then that’s how we come up with new ideas. My hopes is always that we do not get rid of our green space, but find better ways to utilize it,” noted Lamb.
Mitchell spoke with WEKU'S Stu Johnson about FootGolf coming to Lexington's par three course.
