Fort Bragg's historic Stryker Golf Course set to close after nearly 80 Years
FORT BRAGG, NC (WTVD) -- After nearly 80 years of serving soldiers, veterans, and their families, the historic Stryker Golf Course at Fort Bragg is set to close, drawing strong reactions from the military community.
The popular course, which opened shortly after World War II, is expected to close its main greens by Sept. 30.
The driving range will remain open, but the news has already prompted a petition against the closure, gathering more than 400 signatures.
"It's just a real nice layout, you know, and I just love playing out here. And it's good for disabled vets," said retired Command Sgt. Major Ron Thompson, who served for more than three decades and plays at Stryker regularly and teaches others the game.
Thompson said the closure is a blow to the morale and well-being of Fort Bragg's military community.
"This is what we need for soldiers to for their relaxation. That's more important than money. You know, even though it costs a little extra, sometimes the soldiers deserve they deserve every penny that's available out there."
Jennifer Hodges, director of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR), which manages both of Fort Bragg's golf courses, said the decision to close Stryker was not made lightly.
"What it comes down to is the financial sustainability. Unfortunately, we're not able to financially sustain two courses" Hodges said.
The course costs about $750,000 a year to maintain, and declining attendance forced tough choices, she added.
"Before we repurpose or close any type of activity, we make sure we exhaust every avenue first the marketing campaign to drive foot traffic."
Other recreational amenities on post, including several bowling alleys, have also closed in recent years as post looks for ways to balance its recreational offerings and budget limitations.
As the closure draws near, Thompson and other regulars are hoping leaders will reconsider. "At least give us a chance to show that we can help maintain this course," Thompson said.
Officials have hired a firm to evaluate alternative uses for the Stryker property.
Meanwhile, Ryder Golf Course, the post's other golf course, will remain open.
