At today’s study session Pierce County Councilmembers had their first look at the two development proposals vying for the opportunity to build a $45 million resort at Chambers Bay in University Place, Wash.
Pierce County’s vision for the resort is one that is comparable to those found at championship-caliber golf courses and complements the unique natural qualities and golfing experience of Chambers Bay. The project is proposed as a public-private partnership with the private development team designing, financing, constructing and operating the resort on land leased to the developer by the County.
Many years in the planning, a resort was originally under consideration in 2008 when a request for proposals was issued. The economic downturn placed the project on hold until after the golf course successfully hosted the 2015 U.S. Open Championship.
“We are enthusiastic about the two comprehensive proposals we’ve received from the development teams,” said Tony Tipton, the County’s director of Parks and Recreation. “Both groups have brought to the County terrific ideas and fantastic teams capable of building and managing a successful resort of the type we have envisioned.”
The two proposals introduced to the County Council are available for review and comment at www.piercecountywa.org/chambersbayresort.
One proposal was received from Chambers Bay LLC, a group that includes Absher Construction, Tom Douglas Restaurants, Columbia Hospitality, GGLO Architects and KemperSports.
The second proposal was submitted by Valiant Washington, which includes William Haberman, Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Escalante Golf.
The current Chambers Creek Master Site Plan provides for up to 124 units of lodging, 178,000 sq. ft. of space for restaurants, a clubhouse and lodging plus parking.
The next steps in the review process include a Sept. 8 Open House for the public at the Environmental Services Building, where input and comments will be accepted. After selection of a development team, the County will negotiate a lease development agreement for the project. Because of the long-term nature of the lease development agreement, it is subject to approval by the County Council. A timeframe for consideration and voting has not been finalized but it is hoped to be completed by the end of the year.
About the Open House
A one-hour open house will be held at the Environmental Services Building on Thursday, Sept. 8 from 6 to 7 p.m. Representatives from both of the development teams will be on-hand to discuss their proposals and answer questions. Attendees will be able to provide their feedback and reactions via comment cards. Those unable to attend may view the proposals and provide comments at www.piercecountywa.org/chambersbayresort.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Tony Tipton, Pierce County Parks and Recreation Services Director
(253) 798-4250
[email protected]
Libby Catalinich, Pierce County Communications Director
(253) 798-6606
[email protected]