Chicago Park District, Troon extend management deal

Troon recently reached a 10-year management agreement renewal with the Chicago Park District to manage the City of Chicago’s eight golf facilities. Indigo Sports, a Troon company, will continue to operate and maintain Chicago’s six golf courses, three driving ranges and one miniature golf course.

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the Chicago Park District,” said Matt McIntee, a Troon SVP and regional GM for the CPD’s golf facilities. “This renewal underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences at the Parks’ golf facilities. “We are excited to continue to build upon the many community engagement initiatives that we have deployed in supporting the Chicago Park District’s mission of providing people of all ages, identities, and abilities access to quality recreation, wellness opportunities, and sustainable green spaces in every neighborhood.

“Our team is looking forward to another successful term and to exceeding the expectations of our customers.”

The new management agreement will run through December 31, 2034, with up to two additional three-year extensions, potentially extending the contract through the end of 2040. As part of the agreement, Troon will support various capital improvements during the initial 10-year term and has committed to award annual scholarships, programming, and resources to local community youth groups.

Indigo Sports will continue to execute teaching and outreach programs designed to increase public awareness and engagement of underrepresented communities including minority, female, junior, senior, socio-economically challenged, and cognitively and/or physically disabled golfers. CPD facilities include Jackson Park Golf Course, Columbus Park Golf Course, Diversey Driving Range, Douglass (Anna & Frederick) Park, Marquette Park Golf Course, Robert A. Black Golf Course, South Shore Golf Course and Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course.

“Chicago Park District golf facilities are beautiful and unique spaces offering golfers affordable, accessible and one-of-a kind experiences throughout the city,” CPD general superintendent and CEO Rosa Escareño said. “Working with Indigo we seek to further elevate the park golf experience attracting new golfers through thoughtful programs, events and other opportunities”  

Indigo Sports has managed Chicago Park District’s golf facilities since September 2009 and immediately delivered a 30 percent increase in rounds and revenue in the first year of operation without material increases in rates or access, just improved conditions, marketing, service levels and overall experience. In the years since, the team has built strong relationships in the community, touching a wide array of groups from professional organizations, non-profits, small local groups, individuals, and numerous golfers and golf courses across the city and country.