CommonGround in Aurora, Colorado, designed by Tom Doak and opened in 2009, is a public-access golf course owned and operated by the Colorado Golf Association. The course is located near Denver and was developed on the site of a previous course, offering affordable green fees and a welcoming vibe for golfers of all skill levels. Tom Doak, along with his associates Erik Iverson, Jim Urbina, and Don Placek, were tasked with making the most of the land, creating a layout that includes a driving range, a par-3 course, the Solich Caddie and Leadership Academy, and an 18-hole main course that features intricate strategic demands.
Doak emphasized that he did not believe in dumbing down a course just because it was public, wanting golfers to appreciate the design and strategy behind it. Peak green fees at CommonGround are $80, with many locals paying less through various programs. Despite a tight budget of $4 million, the course epitomizes minimalism, with minimal shaping, fuss, and costs, while still providing maximum fun and enjoyment for the players. The course layout takes full advantage of the relatively flat site, with strategic elements incorporated into every hole to challenge and engage golfers.
The course at CommonGround is praised for its seamless shaping, restrained fairway contours, and beautiful vistas that allow for an enjoyable and safe walking experience. The design elements, including the clubhouse, real estate, and layout, are integrated well with the native land, enhancing the overall aesthetic and playability of the course. The putting surfaces at the course offer a great introduction to the design philosophy of Tom Doak, providing a variety of challenges and opportunities for players of all skill levels.
The differentiations of holes by length, club required, and topography, as well as the spread of right-to-left and left-to-right drives and second shots required, offer a diverse and engaging playing experience at CommonGround. The variety of risk/reward opportunities on tee shots, interesting second shots, and different angles of approach make for a strategic and thought-provoking round of golf. The lack of trees on the course allows players to focus solely on their shots, with multiple holes always in view, creating a sense of community and camaraderie among players.
The maintenance of the course is top-notch, with perfectly playable conditions that cater to the high volume of rounds played at the facility. The firm and fast playing surfaces offer an ideal setting for golf, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all players. Despite its minimalist approach, CommonGround excels in providing a quality golfing experience that is both challenging and fun. The overall vibe and sense of community at the course make it a worthy destination for spending four hours on the links, embodying the essence of public-access golf and creating an environment that welcomes all players.
