(March 10, 2025) Plans are in the works to build a brand-new clubhouse facility at Emeis Golf Course (4500 W. Central Park Ave.) to transform the golf experience and invite new players onto the course through the First Tee program.
The Plans
The new 5,600 square foot clubhouse will replace the existing clubhouse that dates back to the opening of the golf course in 1961. In the new space, players can visit the reception area to check in for their tee times, browse the pro shop, and enjoy a beverage with a spectacular view of the course.
Why Emeis?
Emeis Golf Course is the longest regulation course in the City and most heavily played of all three courses. It is also located along the Duck Creek Trail system, offering a place for runners and bike riders to stop off for a place to rest, have a refreshment, and enjoy the course views. The Emeis clubhouse also fits into long term plans to extend the trail to Locust Street, west to Wisconsin Ave., and south to W. 11th St.
“This presents an opportunity, not only to benefit the golf course, but the park system and the community at large, particularly on the west side,” said Chad Dyson, Director of Parks and Recreation. “Thanks to support from the City Council and our partners at First Tee, seeing this project through will be a great accomplishment.”
First Tee Partnership
Plans for the new Emeis clubhouse include an indoor classroom for First Tee Quad Cities. First Tee is a youth golf program that offers programming and instruction introducing children as young as 4 to the game of golf, while teaching valuable life skills. First Tee Quad Cities expanded to Emeis in 2022 from its first Davenport location at Red Hawk Gold Course. First Tee currently serves more than 1,600 kids across the Quad Cities.
“We could do so much more if we had an indoor classroom space,” said Sara Cross, Executive Director. “We want our kids to feel like they belong in this clubhouse, like it was designed for them.”
Funding
The estimated cost to complete the project is $2.6 million. First Tee has committed $300,000 to the project. The City of Davenport has proposed $1 million in the FY 2026 Capital Improvement Budget, with the remaining funds to be raised through grants and private fundraising efforts.