Kenosha Reporter

Kenosha County officials have commended the teamwork that enabled a quick reopening of Brighton Dale Links after a severe storm caused significant damage last month. The storm, which occurred on May 15, impacted the 45-hole golf course and its neighboring park with wind gusts reaching 60 miles per hour and hail the size of golf balls. Jim Wallace, Kenosha County's director of golf, reported that over 140 trees were damaged or downed across the 550-acre property.

The most affected area was the Blue Spruce golf course, where large trees obstructed fairways and significant damage was noted on two greens. Safety concerns included hanging limbs and leaning trees exacerbated by lingering winds.

County Executive Samantha Kerkman praised the rapid response: “Thanks to our teams mobilizing quickly and harmoniously, debris was cleared, and the facility was reopened to golfers as soon as possible.” Within half an hour of the storm passing, Golf Course Superintendent Randy Schultz began clearing debris. By morning, staff from various county divisions were engaged in restoration work.

Remarkably, 18 holes were reopened within 24 hours of the storm; another 18 followed within 48 hours; and all courses were operational by May 23. Wallace highlighted this achievement: “To have 36 holes of golf re-opened within 48 hours was an amazing accomplishment by our staff.”

Supervisor Bill Grady noted varied tree damage during his site visit post-storm. He observed both direct blowdowns and snapped trunks suggesting rotational wind forces. Grady emphasized that initial uncertainty about course availability was overcome through effective collaboration among county staff.

The National Weather Service reported additional widespread damage in Kenosha County due to intense winds and hail affecting vehicles, rooftops, and more trees. Despite this scale of destruction, Wallace pointed out that a coordinated response minimized disruption: “This event serves as a reminder that severe weather can strike at any time —and that with communication and collaboration, we’re able to meet the challenge.”