City golf courses now open

Mayor Martin J. Walsh has announced that the City of Boston’s two municipal golf courses - the William J. Devine Golf Course at Franklin Park in Dorchester and the George Wright Golf Course in Hyde Park – are now open for the 2016 season. 

“Boston’s golfers have the opportunity to play on two award-winning championship courses right in our city,” said Mayor Walsh. “We continue to improve our courses and have enhanced the historic clubhouse at the George Wright with structural improvements and a new patio with outdoor seating.”

Founded in 1938, the 18-hole Donald Ross-designed George Wright Golf Course is a hidden gem in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Boston.  The course is open seven days a week through November. This par 70 championship course is a challenge to golfers of any level.  PGA Professional Scott Allen is available at (617) 364-2300 to answer any questions.

Construction at the George Wright Golf Course clubhouse will be nearing completion in early May.  The project includes a new slate tile roof, windows, and custom crafted arched doors for the front and back of building.  Golfers and their guests will be able to enjoy a new tile patio that will offer outside food service and be available for a variety of events.  Improvements to the golf course include a rebuilt and expanded 16th tee box. 

In addition, a fairway bunker has been added to the right side of the 16th fairway and a clean-up of the wild brush left of the green has exposed a large natural rock formation.   This year the George Wright will be hosting the New England PGA Stroke Play #3 event on July 12 and the one-day U.S. Amateur Qualifier on July 25.

The second-oldest public golf course in America and part of the historic Emerald Necklace, the William J. Devine Golf Course at Franklin Park in Dorchester offers a pleasant golf experience only minutes from downtown Boston and is open year-round, weather permitting.  Contact PGA Professional Kevin Frawley at (617) 265-4084 for more information or to book a tee time. 

Golfers will find a newly-remodeled golf pro shop at the William Devine.  Improvements for 2016 include the reconstruction of the 11th green.  Re-grassing and expansion of the green has made it nearly 25 percent larger and there has been a complete renovation of the greenside bunkers, approach, and rough surrounds, as well as drainage installation in the approach.

Due to wet spring conditions, both courses have been walking-only and the PGA pros suggest calling the clubhouses first to check if the courses have dried out and golf carts are available.  

Golfers can access information on rates, season permits, and tournaments and register for special offers, monthly giveaways, online news, and specials at www.cityofbostongolf.com.  Both courses are owned and operated by the City of Boston, open daily from dawn to dusk, and feature full pro shops, concessions, cart rentals, and lessons for all ages.  For updates, the City’s golf courses can be followed on Twitter @FranklinParkGC and @GeorgeWrightGC.