Ash Brook Golf Course Still Plagued by Flooding, Disrepair

Golfers at Ash Brook Golf Course in Scotch Plains have been waiting for over a year for drainage improvements and fairway repairs, but progress stalled while the Union County Parks Department awaits environmental approval. Union County Life reports on the ongoing maintenance frustrations affecting course members.

Holes 14, 15, 16, and 17 flood every time it rains, making them unplayable. Members of the Ash Brook Golf Course Men's Association report that sand traps, fairways, and run-ups also need repair. The course is owned and operated by Union County.

As a result, golfers have limited options. Some members restrict their games to nine holes to avoid the flooded holes. Others purchase memberships at multiple golf courses or pay out-of-county passes, which can cost double the price of a county membership.

"Frustration is the key word," Ash Brook Golf Course member Dennis Allocco said. Members have contacted Union County Manager Ed Oatman, the Union County Parks and Recreation Department, and the Union County Board of Commissioners seeking a timeline for repairs. None has been provided.

The delays stem from environmental permitting. County officials say they are waiting for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to issue a permit before work can proceed. The NJDEP must visit the golf course and assess the site before issuing approval.

Union County Spokeswoman Kelly Martins said temporary mitigation measures such as pumping are being evaluated. "A separate storm water permit from DEP may be required for those temporary measures, and the scope and requirements for that process are still being reviewed," Martins said.

No timeline for permit approval or course repairs has been announced.

Stay informed about Scotch Plains news and Union County updates on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: Which holes at Ash Brook Golf Course are flooded?
A: Holes 14, 15, 16, and 17 flood every time it rains, making them unplayable. Members also report that sand traps, fairways, and run-ups need repair.

Q: How long have golfers been waiting for repairs?
A: Members of the Ash Brook Golf Course Men's Association have been reaching out to Union County officials for more than a year seeking repairs and timeline estimates, but no completion date has been announced.

Q: Why are repairs delayed?
A: Union County is waiting for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to issue a permit before repairs can begin. The NJDEP must visit the course and assess the site before approving the work.

Q: What are temporary solutions being considered?
A: Union County is evaluating temporary mitigation measures such as pumping water from the affected holes. However, a separate stormwater permit from the NJDEP may be required for these temporary measures as well.

Q: What are my options as a golfer if holes are flooded?
A: Members can limit their game to nine holes, or purchase memberships at other golf courses. Out-of-county passes typically cost double the price of a Union County membership.

Q: Where can I find updates on Ash Brook Golf Course repairs?
A: Contact the Union County Parks and Recreation Department at (908) 558-2550 or call Ash Brook Golf Course directly at (908) 232-8189. Union County Life covers Union County news and updates.