Source: Chicago Daily Herald
Nicer-looking entry signs will give a better first impression at Naperville Park District's two golf courses, officials said Thursday.
Commissioners approved spending about $57,000 for four signs, to be installed at each entrance at Springbrook and Naperbrook golf courses.
"It's about first impressions," said Ed Provow, director of golf services. "We want to give it a more country club look."
The new brick signs, which will feature four columns and sport the golf course's name, will replace the outdated wooden signs, Provow said.
They could be installed by April, weather permitting.
The funds will come out of the district's golf budget, which is self-supporting.
Commissioner Kristen Jungles cast the only vote against the proposal, saying $57,000 was too much to spend on signs. She said visitors are more likely to notice a golf course's clubhouse, bathroom facilities or first tee.
The district's other replacement signs, she said, have cost around $5,000.
"This just seems to me to be awfully excessive for (other) things that we could upgrade," she said.
Other commissioners said stronger first impressions would help the courses compete with other clubs in the area.
"A first impression does make a statement," board President Pam Swafford said. "It will fit in nicely."
Naperbrook Golf Course, in unincorporated Plainfield, has had a few tough seasons recently, Provow said. Most of its struggles are due to construction projects that have limited access to the course. They also have interfered with phone service. The 18-hole course is open year-round.
Provow said he's seen heavy usage, however, at Springbrook, at 83rd Street and Book Road. That facility closed Dec. 2.
Together, the two courses have generated about 87,500 rounds this year, about what Provow said he expected.