Balcony at Evesham's municipal golf course was in danger of collapse; $1 million in bonds to pay repair bill.

Flooring replacement on the clubhouse balcony at the Indian Spring Country Club uncovered serious structural problems that will require a potential million-dollar fix at the facility owned by Evesham Township.

The balcony on the second floor off the banquet room with a view of the golf course was built with the clubhouse in 1999 and now is closed to visitors. However, the banquet room remains open.

A public hearing on the second reading of a $1 million golf course utility bond ordinance will be held by Township Council at its February 11 meeting. 

"The Township recently awarded a contract to a vendor to replace the aging tile flooring on the balcony," Zane Clark, Evesham public information director, told 70and73.com in an email. "While the tile replacement was under way, the structural damage was discovered."

Temporary shoring was installed after concrete damage and decaying steel was uncovered that "jeopardized the structural integrity of that balcony," Township Manager Walt Miller told Council at a meeting this week. 

Emergency work got "steel in place to prevent the collapse of that balcony and any further damage," he said.

Miller said the estimated cost is under $1 million, but the bond would give the Township flexibility for potential increases in material costs and also the ability to get the work done quickly without having to return to Council for additional funding. 

Golf course revenues and fees will be used to pay off the $1 million bond, Clark said. Council unanimously approved the first reading of the bond ordinance. 

"Unused funds from the initial tile replacement project will be used, future insurance payouts, if provided for, and the final cost of the vendor's bid, will reduce the need for this full amount. We are moving quickly on this, to limit the completion time of this project," he said.

Another project, to improve the course's driving range, expand a mini-pro shop at the range and add a bar and restaurant now is under way. The driving range is across the course from the clubhouse and faces East Main Street. The $1.7-million project was in the golf course 2024 capital budget.

"Marco's Restaurant and Events, the established vendor currently operating at the main Indian Spring Clubhouse, will manage the new dining establishment to ensure a consistent quality of service across the property," Clark explained. "Guests will have access to a comprehensive food and beverage menu, including alcoholic options, with amenities including indoor and outdoor seating, multiple televisions, and multiple restrooms."

Clark said the pro shop and bar/restaurant is expected to open in the spring.