The flood control district plans to use the land to hold stormwater runoff and widen Little Cypress Creek, which should improve drainage.
“HCFCD models are projecting that this will lower flood levels in the community by almost 10 feet,” Sulak said in the email. “This will reduce or alleviate much of the flooding in the area. We believe it will be a win-win for the whole community.”
Community Impact previously reported more than 100 homes in the Longwood Village neighborhood flooded during Hurricane Harvey, and this proposed project would reduce flooding risks for hundreds of Longwood Village homes as well as more than 3,000 homes in surrounding neighborhoods.
A 2020 survey conducted by the HCFCD found 75% of Longwood Village residents supported the district purchasing nine holes for the purpose of flood mitigation efforts.
Sulak said the property purchase would be finalized around April 27. More information about the future of Longwood Golf Club will be announced after this date. Community Impact reported in 2021 golf course officials planned to rework the existing 27-hole course to an 18-hole course with the remaining 170 acres. It is unclear as of press time if this plan is still in place.
In the meantime, Sulak said operations at the golf course would be suspended as of April 17. Memberships will be transferred to Cypress Lakes Golf Club, which is located off Cypresswood Drive near Hwy. 290.
