Course renovation work by famous architect at Florida resort is almost complete

Saddlebrook Resort near Tampa is nearing completion of a $92 million renovation of the property, from rooms to restaurants to pools. Part of the work includes reimagining the resort’s golf course, with nine holes currently playable, nine more to open in January, and another nine with construction expected to be completed by 2026.

The resort in Wesley Chapel, Florida, previously had two 18-hole courses, but architect Reece Jones reduced it to three 9-hole layouts, eventually allowing for play in a variety of orders. Rounding out the work on the course is a new 13-acre driving range with short game practice area, opening in December 2024.

Prior to construction, the resort operated the Saddlebrook Course, designed by Dean Refrem and opened in 1976, and the Palmer Course, designed by Arnold Palmer and opened in 1982. Due to Jones’ renovation of these courses, only three nines remain. Oak Nine will open after renovations, Pine Nine will open on January 9, and Cypress Nine is not yet completed. Each of the nine works includes rebuilt greens to USGA specifications, rebuilt tees, bunker renovations and a modern irrigation system.

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“We are very pleased to have completed the first and second phases of the redesign and reconstruction of Saddle Brook Resort’s high-quality golf facilities,” Jones said in a media release explaining that the majority of construction at the resort has been completed. “Saddle Brook now has a world-class practice facility and 18 holes that have been completely redesigned. The Pine and Oak nines are complete and will soon be available for our members and guests to experience. The Cypress nine will be the third phase of the renovation, and when completed, Saddle Brook will have a classic, playable and fun 27-hole complex.”

This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Reese Jones renovates course at Saddle Brook Resort, Florida