David McLay-Kidd’s fingerprints are all over some of the best golf courses in the States, including Bandon Dunes. Now, about 400 miles away, Kidd is set to create another masterpiece in Washington.
Westport Golf Links is approaching the final stages of the environmental review process, and if approved, could be a catalyst for the local economy. Westport estimates the course will create 350 jobs along with a $20 million per year impact, according to King 5 News.
“I love golf and this provides an amazing opportunity for this area that you would only see in Scotland and Ireland,” Kidd told K5. “It’s almost a crime that there isn’t a true links-style golf course on the Pacific Ocean here.”
Molly Bold, the general manager of the Westport marina, understands how special this piece of land could be.
“It’s a wonderful town as it is,” Bold said, “but we have this golden opportunity of 600 acres sitting there on the Pacific Ocean. It’s time we open it up for the public to enjoy.”
According to Westport Golf Link’s website, environmental impact is going to be a top priority.
Westport Golf, Inc. envisions a championship links golf course and hotel located on largely undeveloped property in Westport Light State Park. We are working with Washington State Parks and the City of Westport to develop a master plan for the park that will improve recreational access and identify potential areas for habitat restoration. Through environmentally sound design and community and stakeholder outreach, we hope to create a world-class experience for both golfers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Residents have been coming out in droves to hear about the potential project.
Although shovels haven’t hit dirt, Ryann Day, a Seattle contractor and the mind who put the project in motion, hopes to have golfers on the property by 2025.
“This place is amazing. It deserves to be enjoyed by the people of Washington,” Day said.
