LAWYER AND COMMUNITY ACTIVIST KEVIN GAUGHAN HAS GAINED GROUND WITH THE OLMSTED CONSERVANCY IN HIS PURSUIT TO TURN DELAWARE PARK’S RAGTAG GOLF COURSE INTO A PREMIER COURSE, WHILE TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION THE ORIGINAL OLMSTED VISION.
At the same time, another part of his proposal is also making inroads with the Conservancy, which would see a second course designed in South Buffalo.
The new course would allow for the restoration of Olmsted’s Arboretum. Here’s the breakdown of the two initiatives:
- Redesign the Delaware Park golf course, using less land and restoring a portion of Olmsted’s original Meadow
- Design a second public course in South Buffalo as incentive for removal of the existing course in South Park and full restoration of Olmsted’s Arboretum
At this point, the Conservancy is voicing its initial support for the project. The projects would be strengthened with an Education Center that would provide at-risk youth an opportunity to learn new trades in the sports and green job sectors.
“I’m pleased to partner with the Conservancy in this exciting endeavor, “Gaughan said, “and now eagerly look forward to begin fundraising.”
Gaughan is working with John Thornton, Co-Chair of The Brookings Institution, Washington, DC. to rally the fundraising arm of the initiative. Legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus has also offered to help raise funds. In the end, there would be no cost to taxpayers. Ultimately Nicklaus would be lending his course design skills to the project (learn more) at no cost.
As of late, Gaughan has been working behind the scenes, hosting members from Nicklaus Companies, while pursuing the Olmsted Conservancy in order to gain favor for the initiative.
Gaughan feels that by gaining favor with Olmsted Conservancy, he has made significant strides towards the end goal of building two Jack Nicklaus Golf Courses in Buffalo.
