Course Renovations
Ten years after renovating Poppy Hills Golf Course, the NCGA is focusing on making improvements to its unique Bay Area golf property—the 27-hole Poppy Ridge Golf Course in Livermore wine country.
Plans for what will be the new Poppy Ridge include the creation of an 18-hole Championship course, a Composite Nine-hole course, and selected improvements to its practice areas. Local Golf Course Architect Jay Blasi will oversee the design of the new 18-hole course and practice areas.
The project, expected to be completed in mid-2025, was initiated when it became mandatory to replace the course’s aging irrigation system, which was installed upon Poppy Ridge’s original opening in 1996.
“Upon extensive review of the property, we saw the opportunity to deliver a new 18-hole Championship course for our valued members and players of all abilities,” NCGA CEO Joe Huston said. “Additionally, we saw the opportunity to further incorporate a 9-hole course that supports our mission to ensure that golf is welcoming for people of all ages and skill levels.”
The original Poppy Ridge site consisted of three separate Nine-hole segments—the Chardonnay, Merlot and Zinfandel layouts. The architectural design for the two new components will make the overall layout more walkable, however, carts will continue to be available.
Throughout the project, there will be nine holes always open for play for both NCGA members and the public. The Poppy Ridge site will also still be able to host casual group outings, charity outings, weddings, and other special events.
In 2014, the NCGA re-opened a fully renovated Poppy Hills Golf Course in Pebble Beach to rave reviews.
When the NCGA originally opened Poppy Hills in 1986, it became the first Allied Golf Association to own and operate its own golf course. Poppy Ridge was later added in 1996.