BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) – A proposal that could reshape portions of one of Baton Rouge’s oldest golf courses is drawing strong reactions from residents, with many golfers urging city leaders to leave the course untouched.
During a community meeting on Thursday, June 11, BREC officials unveiled two concepts for the future of City-Brooks Community Park that would expand recreational opportunities while keeping the golf course in place.
The two proposals, known as “The Big Loop” and “The Stitch,” would reduce and redesign portions of the course to create additional space for amenities aimed at attracting a broader range of park users, including families, walkers and cyclists.
The plans immediately generated criticism from many in attendance.
“It doesn’t make any sense,” resident Bill Griffin said. “I don’t know where this idea came from, but personally, I think it’s a travesty to even consider it.”
Griffin believes altering the course would take away from an important part of Baton Rouge’s history.
“Why does Baton Rouge continue to want to erase its history?” Griffin asked.
Not everyone at the meeting opposed the idea of change. Some residents said they support improvements to the park but believe there are other ways to accomplish that goal without modifying the golf course.
Thomas Bryant said he believes city leaders should explore additional options.
“I don’t think they’re being creative enough,” Bryant said.
Some nearby residents expressed concerns that changes to the course could affect property values. Bryant said his biggest concern is the long-term future of the golf course itself.
“That’s going to hurt turnout, and eventually, the golf course could die a slow death,” he said.
While much of the discussion centered on opposition to the proposal, several residents voiced support for the concepts.
“I’m definitely for change,” said Adam Chapman.
Chapman acknowledged the concerns raised by golfers but said he believes the plans strike a balance between preserving the course and expanding opportunities for others to enjoy the park.
“The golf course is still there, still to be enjoyed, but the bigger footprint could be enjoyed by so many more people,” Chapman said.
He said creating more public spaces for families while maintaining golf access would benefit the community as a whole.
“We need more places in this town to be proud of where families can go and do things, and we can do that in these plans, and we can still go play golf,” Chapman said.
BREC officials have not made a final decision on either proposal. Community feedback will help shape the next steps as discussions about the future of City-Brooks Community Park continue.
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