Home Plate Update March 2018 | Page 7

at no cost through a promotional and licensing agreement, which was approved by Arlington City Council on January 9. The City will remain the owner and the operator of the course, collecting all green fees and clubhouse revenues. This partnership and unique branding opportunity is expected to bring an overall positive impact to Arlington and its Entertainment District, such as drawing high-profile golf tournaments, event rentals, attracting new business and quality housing developments, and encouraging visitors to extend their stay at Arlington’s hotels through tourism promotional packages. “By having a world-class golf facility so close to the entertainment district, it gives our visitors with meetings and conventions the ability to stay and play and ideally keep them in Arlington another day,” said Ron Price, Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau president and CEO. “Many conventions provide offsite or ancillary activities to groups and golf is always at the top of the list. As we look to grow our hotels in the Entertainment District, having a golf course close by with the Rangers name on it will be a catalyst for Arlington tourism.” The Texas Rangers Golf Club rate structure is still being finalized, but Arlington residents will receive discounted green fees. Highlights of the agreement: • The branding agreement extends through December 31, 2054, which coincides with the team’s lease with the City for the future Globe Life Field retractable-roof ballpark that opens in 2020. • The City will remain the owner and the operator of the course, collecting all green fees and clubhouse revenues. • The Texas Rangers will provide increased marketing for the City’s golf club, including print advertising on pocket schedules and game programs, video spotlights during Rangers home games, and cross-promotions on the Rangers website and social media feeds. • The Texas Rangers Golf Club is slated to open in summer 2018. The $24 million project includes a total renovation and updated routing of the existing golf course with improved turf grasses and additional water features. A new 33,871-square-foot clubhouse, set to open in spring 2019, will feature a full-service restaurant and bar, covered patio overlooking the golf course, pro shop, locker rooms, and numerous rental and event spaces. 7