In May 2024, Zablocki Park in Greenfield, Wisconsin opened with brand-new, synthetic greens thanks to federal stimulus funding. The course, located southwest of Milwaukee, falls on the more basic, affordable end of the spectrum of golf courses in the United States. Zablocki is a pitch-n-putt course that exudes a laid-back atmosphere, with players wearing casual attire and a lack of strict dress codes.
The layout of Zablocki is compact and convenient, with the 1st tee located just a few paces from the parking lot and holes ranging from 77 to 110 yards in length. The course offers a unique experience, with golfers able to watch soccer matches while waiting to tee off on certain holes. Despite its simplicity and lack of frills, Zablocki provides an enjoyable and relaxed setting for entry-level golfers.
One of the standout features of Zablocki is its affordability, with greens fees priced at a modest $8, making it cheaper than a Subway BLT sandwich. The course’s ability to operate on such low fees can be attributed to the recent improvements made possible by federal funding. The 2021 American Rescue Plan Act allocated $22 million to Milwaukee County for investments in cost-saving initiatives, with a portion of the funding going towards upgrading Zablocki’s greens to synthetic turf.
The decision to switch to synthetic greens was a strategic move by the Parks Department, as it eliminated the need for daily maintenance costs associated with natural grass. The new greens at Zablocki are durable, resistant to damage, and provide a challenging yet playable surface for golfers. The course also features multiple holes on each green, allowing for variation in play and adding an element of competition with a leaderboard for hole-in-one achievements.
In addition to Zablocki, another pitch-n-putt course in Milwaukee, Noyes Park, also benefited from federal funding, using $1 million for improvements like a new irrigation system. These upgrades have enabled both courses to maintain low greens fees while enhancing the overall playing experience. With the longevity and sustainability ensured by the improvements funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, Zablocki and Noyes Park can continue to offer affordable and accessible golf options for the community.
