Philly golf course's Tiger Woods facility marks big milestone
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The opening of the TGR Learning Lab marks a milestone for the Cobbs Creek Golf Course restoration project. Photo: Courtesy of TGR Foundation
One of Tiger Woods' major investments in West Philly's Cobbs Creek Golf Course is now open.
Why it matters: The TGR Learning Lab offers free educational programming to local students, and it tees up the unveiling of more new facilities at the historic public golf course later this year.
The big picture: The nonprofit Cobbs Creek Foundation is in the midst of a massive $175 million restoration project that aims to transform the course into a golfing mecca for the region.
- Besides Woods, the project has garnered the backing of other giants in the sport, including Jordan Spieth.
Driving the news: Students in middle and high school can now sign up for free after-school classes, weekend workshops and other programs at the TGR Learning Lab, which was developed with Woods' charity.
- The two-story, 30,000-square-foot facility spans nine classrooms and includes a music recording area and podcast studio.
- And yes, it has a golf simulator.
Zoom in: Upcoming courses include podcasting, career and college readiness, forensic science, and music production, plus the lab will host Friday-night hangout events.
- The facility will eventually expand to serve students in grades 1-12 and offer athletic programs.
1 cool thing: Philly is one of two TGR Learning Labs in the country, following the flagship location in Anaheim, California.
What they're saying: "At the Learning Lab, we will provide opportunities for thousands of kids to learn, grow and chase after their dreams for many years to come," Woods said in a social media post about the facility's opening.
What's ahead: More new facilities coming to the Cobbs Creek campus this fall.
- A double-decker driving range with nearly 70 bays is expected to open in September.
- The range will include the latest tech, so golfers can nerd out over spin rates and the "smash factor" of their shots.
- A three-story building connected to the range will house a pro shop, restaurant, museum and community space.
Plus: Another Woods investment is slated to open in September: a nine-hole, par-3 short course designed by the pro golfer's design company.
What we're watching: The restoration of Cobbs Creek, which will help prevent flooding at the course and expand wetlands, is expected to start this month.
- The 18-hole golf course is expected to open in 2027, along with another full nine-hole course.