Architect Gene Bates developing master plan for refurbishments to Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel amenity
WORLEY, Idaho (May 28, 2019) – Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel recently announced that it has commissioned golf course architect Gene Bates, ASGCA, to develop the master plan for improvements to Circling Raven Golf Club, the award-winning course that is celebrating its 15th Anniversary season this year.
The master plan will guide course enhancements and provide a blueprint for future refinements. Bates’ scope of work may include:
- Renovating existing sand bunkers;
- Removing no longer relevant ones;
- Adding strategically placed new sand bunkers;
- Leveling existing tees and possibly creating some new ones to change the experience, challenge, and or shot values and aesthetics;
- Re-grassing greens with a new Bent Grass variety that minimizes Poa Annua grass and its ability to creep into existing turf;
- Expanding the practice facility experience with additional game-honing opportunities;
- Exploring the addition of new golf holes adjacent to the practice area; and
- Identifying an area for destination golf accommodations.
“Circling Raven continues to be held in high esteem by golfers and golf course raters, but like hotels, it’s important to periodically reinvigorate them so they’re the best they can be and are well positioned to maintain high quality and customer appreciation,” said Francis Sijohn, CEO of Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel. “Gene Bates did an incredible job designing Circling Raven originally, and we know his vision through the master plan for our golf course will be equally remarkable.”
“We are advancing the golf experience at Circling Raven for the next 15 years, with its condition, playability and aesthetics,” said Bates, an admired member of the American Society of Golf Course Architects who has authored top courses worldwide. “Each phase of the master plan will be implemented such that the course will be available for play the vast majority of time.”
That’s encouraging news for golfers. Circling Raven is offering 15th Anniversary specials in 2019, including exceptional deals on stay-and-play packages, merchandise, instruction, and more. The master plan timeline and action items will be announced this season and tentatively planned in phases to lessen interruption in play.
For more information, visit www.cdacasino.com or 800-523-2464.
About Circling Raven Golf Club and Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel
Owned and operated by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Circling Raven is in the scenic Idaho panhandle approximately 55 minutes from Spokane International Airport (GEG). Measuring 7,189 yards from the rear tees, the 18-hole layout sprawls magnificently through 620 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and Palouse grasses. Its gleaming white sand bunkers are large and strategically placed and its hole variety ingenious.
Other Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel amenities and activities include the full-service Spa Ssakwa’q’n (pronounced Sock-wock-en); a variety of hotel rooms and suites; bars, restaurants, lounges, and eateries; cultural immersion options, and more. The casino underwent extensive revitalization over the winter and is planned to be unveiled this spring.
Circling Raven has garnered numerous best-in-kind honors since opening, including being rated as a Top 100 Resort Course, Best in State, and a Top U.S. Casino Course. Its golf shop has won national and regional awards for its excellence and its variety of products, displays, and performance.
