San Luis Obispo’s Beloved Golf Course Isn’t Going Anywhere—But Its Future Is Still Up for Debate.
In a city grappling with the need for affordable housing, one popular recreational spot has found itself at the center of a heated discussion: the Laguna Lake Municipal Golf Course. But here’s where it gets controversial—while some see it as a prime location for housing development, others argue it’s a vital community asset that deserves to stay. So, what’s the real story? Let’s tee off into the details.
A Golf Course in Limbo—Or Is It?
San Luis Obispo’s City Council recently tackled the future of the 26-acre, 10-hole Laguna Lake Golf Course, located at 11175 Los Osos Valley Road. Owned by the city since 1978 and operated as a public facility since the 1980s, this course has been a staple for locals and a budget-friendly option for golfers of all ages. But with the city’s growing housing demands, some have wondered: could this green space become a housing development instead? The short answer, for now, is no. And this is the part most people miss—the course isn’t just surviving; it’s thriving in unexpected ways.
Despite challenges like COVID-19 closures and storm damage in 2023, the course saw a surprising uptick in usage in 2024-25, with nearly 24,000 rounds played—a significant jump from the 16,200 rounds in 2019-20. Yet, it’s no secret that expenses have outpaced revenues, with the course costing roughly $827,100 to operate while bringing in just over $375,000. Still, it’s managed to stay within its annual budget, leaving many to wonder: is this a financial drain or a community treasure worth investing in?
Improvements on the Horizon—But at What Cost?
Councilmember Mike Boswell summed it up bluntly: ‘I just don’t see a realistic path forward for something other than a golf course.’ Instead of converting it, the focus is now on bringing the course up to ‘San Luis Obispo standards.’ This includes two major projects: a $600,000 bridge replacement and a $250,000 renovation of the flood-damaged pro shop. But these upgrades have been on hold, awaiting council approval on timing and scope. The question remains: will these improvements be enough to turn the course into a revenue generator, or is it simply too costly to maintain?
Housing vs. Recreation: The Debate Heats Up
While the idea of transforming the course into affordable housing seems appealing, it’s far from simple. The city would need to rezone the property, upgrade stormwater facilities, and navigate hurdles like fire hazard severity zoning and deed restrictions. Even then, it would likely be a pricey endeavor for developers, requiring the city to navigate the complex Surplus Land Act process. A theoretical example suggests the site could accommodate roughly 480 two-bedroom units if 20 acres were developed—but is that worth sacrificing a beloved recreational space?
Another option? Turning it into a public park. This would retain existing features like restrooms, parking, and barbecue areas but would require upgrades for accessibility and safety. Either way, both options demand significant planning and collaboration across city departments. But here’s the real question: can San Luis Obispo afford to lose a space that’s been a lifeline for so many?
The Community Pushes Back—And Gets Creative
Local golfers and nearby residents have made their voices heard, passionately advocating for the course’s preservation. Over 115 people wrote to the City Council ahead of the meeting, with the majority supporting its continued operation. Terri Benson, a PGA golf professional who runs the First Tee youth program at the course, pleaded with the council to consider the impact of its decision. ‘Once a space like this is gone, the opportunities it gives our children—to belong, to grow, to be supported—are gone with it,’ she wrote. Her sentiment was echoed by Cal Poly professor Darren Avrit, who called the course ‘a vital public asset.’
The meeting even featured a lighthearted moment when a group of local golfers, dubbed ‘The Lagunatics,’ performed a modified version of The Drifters’ ‘Under the Boardwalk,’ singing about the course’s benefits. Their message? ‘It’s such an asset to our city—God, I hope it stays.’
What’s Next for Laguna Lake?
As the council moves forward, Mayor Erica Stewart acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding any potential conversion. For now, the focus is on enhancing what’s already there. ‘Let’s have people enjoy what we have here right now,’ she said. Councilmembers agreed, supporting the bridge replacement and pro shop repairs to give the course its best chance at success. But the debate is far from over.
The Bigger Question: What Do You Think?
Is Laguna Lake Golf Course a financial burden the city can’t afford, or is it a priceless community asset worth preserving? Should San Luis Obispo prioritize housing development, or is there room for both? Share your thoughts in the comments—this conversation is just getting started.
