Martin County, Fla., known as one of the country’s golf capitals, is set to add another golf course to its already large number of courses. The county commissioners have approved the final site plan for Phase 2 of Three Lakes Golf Club, where an additional 18-hole course is expected to be built. The ownership group of the club includes high-profile names such as former USGA CEO Mike Davis, Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, course architect Tom Fazio II, and former LPGA player Lynn Connelly. This group is also involved in the construction of the Apogee Club located nearby.
The project will span 282 acres and include the new golf course, known as the North Course, as well as eight golf cottages for short-term stays, a performance center, golf training center, and maintenance building. Three Lakes Golf Club is a private club located at 3535 Southwest Kanner Highway in unincorporated Martin County, with no homes located on the property. It remains unclear if any of the facilities will be open to the public.
Martin County currently boasts more than 28 golf courses, according to the tourism and marketing office. In February, county officials changed the land-use designation for the golf club to a controversial rural lifestyle designation, allowing for more intense development in areas like western agricultural lands. This designation has been met with opposition from those who feel it will impact the limited growth that has defined the Martin County difference.
Despite the controversy surrounding the rural lifestyle designation, county staff recommended approval of the Phase 2 final site plan, with no public comments being made during the commissioners’ meeting. The developer made efforts to protect trees on the property, relocating those that could not be preserved. With the approval of Phase 2, the project is expected to be a significant employer in the area and contribute to local charities.
The ownership group’s involvement in both Three Lakes Golf Club and the Apogee Club underscores their commitment to the local community and the golf industry. The addition of the North Course will further enhance Martin County’s reputation as a golf destination, attracting both residents and visitors alike. As construction progresses, the economic impact of the project is anticipated to benefit the region and bolster the golfing scene in the area.
