Desert Highlands in Scottsdale, Arizona is set to undergo a renovation of its Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course next year. The course, which first opened in 1983, has been ranked as the No. 8 private course in Arizona and ties for No. 143 on the list of top modern courses in the U.S. The upcoming renovation, led by Nicklaus Design, will focus on six main areas including design enhancements to several holes, rebuilding all the greens, tee reconstruction, bunker reconstruction, vegetation management, and the restoration of turf on tees, fairways, and rough. The renovation is scheduled to start in April and finish by November 2025.
General manager Desi Speh expressed excitement about the plans for the renovation, stating that Nicklaus Design’s vision for Desert Highlands is compelling. The project aims to solidify Desert Highlands as one of the most sought-after golf experiences in Arizona while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the community. The goal is to return the golf course to its purest form while maintaining the quality and status that has been a standard bearer in North Scottsdale for over 40 years.
Specific changes to the course were outlined in a media release, including the addition of a new forward tee box on No. 5, alterations to the eighth green complex to improve visibility, new tee boxes on the 10th hole to accommodate possible practice-area expansion, elimination of a high ridge blinding the alternate fairway on No. 13, and the relocation of saguaro cacti on the finishing hole that obstruct tee boxes. Additionally, plans may include relocating or building new tee boxes to enhance the overall playing experience at Desert Highlands.
The renovation project at Desert Highlands is expected to not only improve the golf course itself but also enhance the overall community and elevate its status as a premier golf destination in the region. It will bring a new level of excitement and challenge to the course, making it more appealing to both members and visitors. With Nicklaus Design at the helm, the renovation is anticipated to meet the high standards and expectations that have characterized Desert Highlands for decades.
In conclusion, the renovation of Desert Highlands in Scottsdale, Arizona is set to transform the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course into a premier destination for golf enthusiasts. The planned changes, spearheaded by Nicklaus Design, will enhance the layout, aesthetics, and playability of the course while maintaining its quality and status as a top-rated golf experience in the region. With a focus on design enhancements, green and bunker reconstruction, tee realignment, and vegetation management, the renovation project aims to bring a fresh new look and feel to Desert Highlands, solidifying its reputation as a sought-after golf destination for years to come.
