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The Highlands golf course could be sold for housing development

Posted at 1:54 PM, Jul 26, 2016
and last updated 2016-07-26 13:54:29-04

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich–It’s been a mainstay in the Grand Rapids golf scene on the West Side for more than 100 years, but The Highlands golf course could be sold to make way for a residential development.

Rumors about a possible sale have been swirling for months, but now things have moved a step further. Both Third Coast Development, and the Grand Rapids Elks Club confirm to FOX 17 that Third Coast has obtained a purchase agreement on the property.

However, a representative for Third Coast is quick to point out that a purchase agreement does not necessarily mean that a sale will occur.

“Third Coast Development has the opportunity to purchase The Highlands Golf Club,” they said in a statement released Tuesday.

“Both parties have entered into a purchase contract which allows Third Coast to evaluate its opportunities before closing on the sale. At this time Third Coast Development continues to research those possibilities, however the golf course and related events will continue to operate through the year.”

Related events include the social club function of the bar at the club for Elks members, and regular meetings for the club. However, Grand Rapids Elks Lodge #48 Exalted Ruler, Scott Smith, told FOX 17 by phone that for now, everything will function as usual for the Elks.

The club will continue to meet and hold functions at The Highlands, and Smith says he has met with a Third Coast Development just once to date.

The Highlands was designed by golf course architect Donald Ross, and built in 1908. The course has played host over the years to LPGA events, as well as the Senior PGA tour event before it eventually moved to Egypt Valley Country Club.

Over the past few months, FOX 17 News has heard from multiple neighbors living near the course who are upset about the possibility of the green space being developed.

FOX 17 News will continue to follow this story, and bring you developments as we get more information.