Mercer County buys Hopewell Valley Golf and Country Club (updated)

Mercer County has purchased the 186-acre Hopewell Valley Golf and Country Club for $1.9 million. The once private course and club will be available for county residents to enjoy starting this summer.

The 18-hole golf course property is located at 114 Hopewell-Pennington Road in Hopewell Township and includes a clubhouse, a ballroom and a pro shop. The property will be managed by the Mercer County Park Commission.

“This latest acquisition furthers our commitment to protect Mercer County open space, and successes on this scale are the result of years of behind-the-scenes collaborative efforts,” said Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes. “This investment will offer the public a new active recreation destination in a section of the county known for its passive parks, and I take great pride in transitioning this property into a place for public enjoyment.”

The formerly private golf and country club was bought by Spirit Golf Management in 2016. The golf and country club was designed by Thomas Winton in 1927, includes a championship golf course, locker rooms, and a driving range. The clubhouse features a patio overlooking the 18th green, indoor dining, and a full-service bar, which will be open to the public once the facility is operational. Visitors will also have the option to play tennis at the facility with the addition of three Har-Tru outdoor tennis courts and three platform tennis courts. The pool will be open to the public during the summer months and includes a diving board, along with a wading pool for children.

“This facility opens so much potential for the park commission and we are thrilled to have acquired this property,” said Aaron Watson, executive director of the Mercer County Park Commission. “Expanding upon our golf and tennis offerings, the addition of a pool gives us the opportunity to provide something new and exciting in the county and opens the door to new programs and events at this location”.

Officials said that maintaining the value of the course will be a priority, and that native tree and shrub plantings will be placed near the Stony Brook.

Officials said the club is currently closed to the public. Over the winter months, the property will remain closed as employees and contractors begin work on the buildings, greens and courts. The park commission anticipates opening the facility in spring of 2021 for golf and dining. Tennis courts and the pool will be open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, officials said.