Project Overview

The Los Alamos Golf Course dates back to 1947 when the Atomic Energy Commission constructed an 18-hole course to help attract workers to this remote outpost operated by the U.S. Government. Today, the Los Alamos National Laboratory remains a scientific and engineering hub for nuclear innovation and stability. An original design attributed to William H. Tucker, Sr., the course was expanded to 18 holes during the 1960s. At 7,300 feet above sea level, the layout is New Mexico’s second oldest and among the highest courses in the U.S. The course is operated by Los Alamos County.

Forrest Richardson teamed with golf course architect Todd Schoeder in 2022 to restore and renovate the course and practice range. The overriding goal was to return the course to its once “point of pride” status. Taking cues from Tucker’s original design, the duo embraced simple bunkers and classic features as they worked to also update drainage and green surfaces. It is interesting to note that Tucker worked for Willie Dunn in Biarritz, France, and then settled in the States in 1895. There he helped form the original Mt. Hope Course at St. Andrews in Yonkers, New York. He also built courses, including work for Tillinghast. The Los Alamos ‘modern’ course erased much of the early design, yet the team worked to create a old style feel, as if it had been there for the past 80 years.

Quick Facts

Scope: Project Planning, Approvals, Construction Documents and Construction Observation Services
Additional Scope: Range Containment (Poles and Netting) with Tanner Consultants
Course: 18-holes, Par-72, 6,700-yards
Budget: $9M USD
Completion: Re-opened in 2026
Developer: Pivotal Group
Builder: Mid-American Golf
Address: 4250 Diamond Dr Los Alamos, New Mexico 87544

Articles

Schoeder-Richardson Collaboration Restores Historic New Mexico Course

Links

Los Alamos Golf Course – Los Alamos County Parks & Recreation Facilities