Last month several potential projects for the metro’s urban core were announced, including a multi-modal bridge across the Missouri River, a streetcar, and the redevelopment of Dodge Riverside Golf Club in Council Bluffs.
The Dodge Riverside Golf Club redevelopment concept includes a mixed-use housing development similar to Aksarben Village in Omaha. The multi-modal bridge would connect this development to downtown Omaha by streetcar with space for pedestrian and bicycle traffic.
City of Council Bluffs officials want to address concerns around the initial vision.
“Everything you’ve seen so far is conceptual,” said Council Bluffs Mayor Matt Walsh. “There are no official plans to sell the golf course any time soon.”
Dodge Riverside Golf Club remains open and continues to offer season passes and leagues, host events and outings, and fill tee times. Dodge Riverside Grille remains open and continues to book banquets, meetings, and parties.
“The plans for redeveloping Dodge Park are part of a long-term vision,” said Walsh. “It’s important to reimagine the land being used by the City. Repurposing our golf course would address the housing shortage we’re facing and result in additional property tax revenue.”
Major projects like the proposed redevelopment of Dodge Park take years. There are public processes to follow, studies to be conducted, and plans that need drafting. In the meantime, golf and special events continue at Dodge Park.
“While we aren’t sure what it will look like yet, we are thinking big and imagining the possibilities,” said Walsh. “We don’t plan to close the golf course any time soon, but we will keep the public informed as we evaluate options, develop the concepts, and navigate the processes. Any and all contractual obligations made with the golf course will be honored.”