Western Hills Municipal Golf Course Seeks Expansion

Officials look to upgrade facilities and attract more players to the 18-hole course

Mar. 11, 2026 at 1:31am

Western Hills Municipal Golf Course in Hopkinsville, Kentucky has seen a significant increase in rounds played over the past few years, growing from 20,300 rounds in the 2019-20 fiscal year to over 26,700 rounds last year. To keep up with this growth, the course's Executive Board is seeking additional funding for capital projects, including a new cart shed, bathroom design, and pro shop, which are estimated to cost around $2 million in total.

Why it matters

As a key recreational asset for the Hopkinsville community, the continued success and growth of Western Hills Municipal Golf Course is important for attracting visitors, supporting the local economy, and providing an affordable public golf option for residents. The course's leadership is being proactive in addressing infrastructure needs to accommodate increased demand.

The details

During a Christian County Fiscal Court meeting, Western Hills' Executive Board President Kirk Dulin and PGA Golf Professional Darren Wittenburg outlined the course's recent growth and plans for improvement. A 2019 US Golf Association assessment led to recommendations that have since been implemented. However, the course still faces a major hurdle in the need for several capital projects, including a new cart shed after a recent tornado, as well as a new bathroom design and pro shop. The total construction cost is estimated at $2 million. To help fund these upgrades, the course is publicly requesting $175,000 annually, split between the city and county.

  • In the 2019-20 fiscal year, Western Hills saw over 20,300 rounds played.
  • In the 2020-21 fiscal year, rounds increased to over 26,700.
  • The 2026-27 fiscal year is expected to see even more rounds played.

The players

Kirk Dulin

Executive Board President of Western Hills Municipal Golf Course.

Darren Wittenburg

PGA Golf Professional at Western Hills Municipal Golf Course.

J.E. Pryor

Magistrate for Christian County.

John Bruce

Magistrate for Christian County and member of the Western Hills board.

Phillip Peterson

Magistrate for Christian County.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

Magistrates discussed seeking grant aid and one-time investments through the Pennyrile Area Development District, as well as local, state, and federal authorities to help fund the needed capital projects at Western Hills Municipal Golf Course.

The takeaway

The growth in rounds played at Western Hills Municipal Golf Course highlights the course's importance as a recreational asset for the Hopkinsville community. By proactively addressing infrastructure needs, the course's leadership is positioning it to continue serving residents and attracting visitors in the years to come.