PARMA, Ohio — After nearly 100 years, the Ridgewood Golf Course Clubhouse – which was built in 1925 – is coming down in Parma with demolition starting Monday morning.
"It's something that's been needed for a really long time," Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter said. "We're excited about this new chapter for Ridgewood Clubhouse and our city.
The city decided demolition was necessary as “the structure has reached the point that repairs will no longer suffice and new construction is required.” Cuyahoga County is providing $175,000 from its Community Development Fund, which is tied to gross casino revenues distributed to the county, and Cuyahoga Land Bank is adding $50,000 to cover demolition costs.
"I know how important Ridgewood Golf Course is to the City of Parma and neighboring communities in Cuyahoga County,” said Cuyahoga County Councilman Scott Tuma. “For nearly 100 years, it has served as a recreational center of activity for the community. It also brings in revenue for the City of Parma. The demolition of the clubhouse will be a significant first step in allowing city officials to move forward with their vision for designing and building a new facility that will also serve as a community center for all of our residents, all while driving economic success in the process."
So what’s next? A new event center that goes beyond a traditional clubhouse. Officials say the space will be able to host wedding receptions, banquets and large parties in addition to golf outings, “providing access to people who don't golf but want to take advantage of the beautiful golf course view and its central location in the city.”
"We respect the rich history of Ridgewood Golf Course, however, we are excited to offer to our golfers and non-golfers an event center that can be utilized 12 months a year," said Parks and Recreation Director Mickey Vittardi.
A date for the new construction has not yet been determined.
“The city is in the process of sending out requests for quotes from architects and finding additional funding sources, which includes the city going back to the county for economic development money to help cover the cost of a new facility,” according to a press release.
Golfers will still be able to play the course this season despite the clubhouse’s removal as staff will operate from a triple-wide trailer.
"We hope to provide the same level of service as prior years. The pavilion will also remain open," said Golf Course Manager and PGA Pro Dave Chuba.
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Editor's note: Video in the player above was originally published in an unrelated article on March 21, 2022.
