There have been numerous requests for outside dining at the Club for years.  The most recent member survey (September 2020) revealed member demand for outside dining/lounge options.
 
Prospective Members have mentioned a lack of outside dining as a reason for choosing another club.  All our competitors have this amenity.
 
The pandemic has underscored the need for this as 35% of our Members stated they do not come into the clubhouse to eat.  This can serve as the Club's entre into upgrading and updating of our Clubhouse, which is long overdue.  This adds to the value of each membership.  This addition of dining/lounge facilities will serve us well before any anticipated clubhouse full renovation, will serve us during any clubhouse renovation as an alternative to closing dining options, and will serve us after the renovation as a wonderful amenity for our members.

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WHAT WILL BE DONE?

• The proposed site for the outdoor dining is near the current halfway house, providing beautiful vistas of the practice areas, and gardens and offering convenience for a drink or meal after a round of golf. This area will also provide opportunities for elegant outdoor dinners and special events and functions. The current halfway house will be relocated.
• An outdoor covered seating area will be built at the east end of the Clubhouse. It will be connected to an inside/out elevated lounge/bar that will replace the dining area nearest the kitchen inside.
• There will be 132 total seats included in this project, and new restrooms in the area.
• TV's, fire pits, and casual relaxation areas will be included, as well as extensive landscaping.
• The putting and chipping area adjacent to this will be lighted for evening practice and dining ambience.
• A roof will cover much of the outdoor area, while there will be some open areas protected by umbrellas.
• This will become the foundation for any ultimate Clubhouse renovation.
• If we are timely and if permitting allows, this project is anticipated to be complete by next winter.

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WHO...

This project was initiated through the input of members of the Club as well as member prospects that loved the golf course but wanted outside dining options.

Royal Palm has an ad hoc committee assembled that is working on this project that includes several Board members, a Royal Palm Member with contractor experience, and Clubhouse Manager, Ben Heatherington.  The project also has been endorsed by the entire Long Range Planning Committee, the House Committee, and the Board of Directors.

Additionally, David Humphrey, Architect, has been engaged to advise on this project. Mr. Humphrey has completed similar projects for Twin Eagles, Vanderbilt Country Club, Grey Oaks, and Bear's Paw.

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WHEN?

The project was approved by Membership vote at the Annual Meeting on March 23, 2021; the following are target dates for completion:

• Permitting by August 31
• Construction to follow immediately
• SERVICE AT THE OUTDOOR BAR BY EARLY 2022???

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