(Updated Aug. 3, 2015 at 2:55 p.m.)

Willow Brook Country Club, a member-owned golf club in Tyler, has selected Tripp Davis and Associates to redesign the club’s golf course and practice facilities.

Founded in 1922, Willow Brook is the oldest golf course in Tyler, and Davis views it as an interesting challenge.

“Willow Brook is routed over some of the most interesting terrain I have seen,” Davis said.  “It is not quite as hilly as Pine Valley in the New Jersey sand barrens, but it is a similar landscape, with the sandy soil and mix of pines and oaks.

“In the 1950’s, legendary golf course architect Ralph Plummer did a very good job routing the current course, and our direction is to take the strategic character of the course to the next level, with more interest in the greens and bunkers.”

Chris Hudson, a member of the Professional Golfers Association and club official in charge of golfing amenities, says that Tripp Davis and Associates have been hired for the space of one year, to help develop a 10-20 year master plan.

He also added that the club has not committed to any plans or changes Tripp Davis and Associates may propose. Instead, he says they will test Davis’ suggestions for layout, grasses, etc. on the four-hole shot course officially commissioned, saying “It’s a trial deal.”

Davis, himself a member of the 1989 National Championship Golf Team and an NCAA All-American selection while at the University of Oklahoma, founded TDA in 1994, and keeps offices in Norman, Oklahoma and Peoria, Arizona.

The well-known golf course designer said he already has a plan for the club’s new layout.

“Our first project will be a four-hole short course, with holes ranging from 60 to 140 yards,” he continued. “It’s a great addition to the practice facilities and a place for kids to learn the game. This is also giving us the opportunity to show Willow Brook the style of greens and bunkers we will bring to the course eventually.”

The club, located at 3205 W. Erwin St., will remain open for dining, swimming, tennis and other functions during the project.

For more information, call 903-592-8226.