Work is now underway at the Sierra Vista Golf Center, as the City moves forward with a water and energy savings project with Schneider Electric. The project will significantly reduce water use, modernize irrigation infrastructure, and save and create energy.

Construction of covered parking with solar panels begins this week and turf reduction is now underway. Work will progress in phases with upgrades to ponds, critical water infrastructure, and the irrigation system expected to begin in September. The project will be completed in 2027.

The conversion of 17.5 acres of irrigated turf to waterless landscaping will save about 35 million gallons of water each year, generating more than $6 million in lifecycle savings. The turf will be replaced with a combination of xeriscape landscaping and areas with a custom seed blend designed for Sierra Vista, restoring native vegetation to support pollinators and other wildlife, while enhancing aesthetics.

In the short term, areas of the course will look less polished while existing grass is removed and areas are seeded. This temporary disruption is a necessary step toward creating a more natural landscape that uses less water.

“This project demonstrates how communities can balance recreation, conservation, and fiscal responsibility,” City Director of Parks, Recreation, & Library Laura Wilson says. “By reducing water use and modernizing infrastructure, we’re making an investment that will benefit Sierra Vista residents for decades to come.”