Augusta Municipal Golf Course, affectionately known as “The Patch,” has a long and storied history in Augusta, Georgia. Established in 1928, The course has served as a cornerstone of public golf in the city for nearly a century. Nestled just a few miles from the world-famous Augusta National Golf Club it as built to provide the everyday golfer an accessible and affordable venue to enjoy the game.
Over the years, The Patch has welcomed golfers of all skill levels and backgrounds. It has been a place where generations of Augustans have learned to play, competed, and built community around a shared passion for golf. Its original 18-hole layout featured tree-lined fairways and a classic design that provided both challenge and enjoyment. Though modest in comparison to Augusta’s more glamorous golfing neighbors, The Patch held a special place in the hearts of local players. But as years have gone by the course has also been declining in its modernity.
The Patch Project is an ambitious renovation plan aimed at strengthening public golf in the Augusta, Georgia community. Its mission is to increase access to golf while fostering opportunities for young people and residents to play and work in the sport.
The initiative is led by The Patch Project, LLC, a collaboration between Augusta Technical College, The First Tee of Augusta, and Masters Tournament Charities, Inc. The support of Augusta National Golf Club and its chairman, Fred Ridley, has been pivotal in advancing the multi-phase effort.
Key announcements have shaped the timeline of the renovation. On April 5, 2023, Ridley announced Augusta National’s commitment to supporting the project. In April 2024, Tom Fazio Design and Beau Welling Design were revealed as the architects for the new 18-hole course. The Patch officially closed for construction on December 30, 2024. During Masters Week on April 7, 2025, the full master plan was unveiled, including renderings and logos for the redesigned course and clubhouse. The Patch is expected to reopen in April 2026.
The renovation includes a new 18-hole course designed by Fazio and Welling that will retain the character of 11 existing holes while expanding playing areas by 20 percent. The 9-hole short course, named “The Loop at The Patch,” will be designed by TGR Design by Tiger Woods and will feature a walkable layout with artificial turf tees.
The practice facilities will also be transformed with a 380-yard driving range, multiple teeing areas, and short game spaces expanded by 700 percent. Additionally, a new clubhouse, outdoor pavilion, and agronomy facility with future classroom space will support both golfers and educational programming.
The Patch Project represents a significant investment in public golf and youth development in Augusta.
Throughout its history, the golf course has faced its share of challenges. Changes in management, funding limitations, and aging infrastructure led to periods of decline. However, its cultural and recreational significance remained strong, with community members rallying to preserve and revitalize the course. It became a vital training ground for young players, especially through programs like The First Tee of Augusta, which introduced countless youth to golf and valuable life skills.
In recent years, a renewed vision for The Patch has emerged, culminating in a major renovation effort led by a partnership between Augusta Technical College, The First Tee of Augusta, and Masters Tournament Charities. This new chapter in The Patch’s history includes plans for a reimagined 18-hole course, a 9-hole short course designed by TGR Design, and vastly improved facilities.
As The Patch approaches its 100th anniversary, it stands poised to continue serving the Augusta community as a vibrant hub for public golf, education, and opportunity.
