The Gate Golf Club, on behalf of Arthrex and First Tee – Naples/Collier, presented the construction progress of the Golden Gate Golf Course at the BCC Meeting on. March 25. The County purchased the property in 2019 for $29 million. The public golf course project has been delayed due to the previous developer’s financing challenges, which ultimately resulted in the termination of their contract.
On April 23, 2024, the Board of County Commissioners approved a new long-term lease and operating agreement with The Gate Golf Club, Inc., to continue the development of this project.
After nearly a year of securing funding and permits, The Gate Golf Club officially broke ground in February. The project consists of three phases running concurrently. Phase 1 involves the demolition and reconstruction of the maintenance and grounds facilities, which began two months ago. Phase 2, the construction of the 9-hole par-35 golf course, started in March with the removal of invasive vegetation and land clearing. Phase 3 will focus on developing “The Village,” which will include the First Tee Academy as the headquarters for First Tee – Naples/Collier, along with training centers, offices, gathering and event spaces, dining facilities, and a 30-bay covered driving range.
The Gate contract with the County includes provisions to make the golf course accessible and affordable to the community. The Gate will provide a resident discount of 40% on seasonal rates and 20% on off-season rates, the base rates are not yet set. The developer estimates the annual value of discounts to be $600,000.
With no expected interruptions from hurricanes and other natural disasters, the community golf course is on track for a Spring 2026 opening. We will continue to monitor the progress of this project. For more information, visit thegategolf.org.