First Tee Idaho is planning a significant expansion of its Pierce Park Greens facility in Boise, with construction targeted to begin in the second quarter of 2027. The organization, which assumed ownership of the 27-acre property in October 2024, estimates the project will cost more than $10 million and include two new buildings designed to extend programming beyond the current April-through-October season and serve a broader range of youth and community groups.
The expansion represents a major investment in youth development infrastructure for the Treasure Valley. First Tee Idaho has grown substantially since its first class at Pierce Park Greens in 2005, expanding from 400 children annually in 2019 to 1,374 participants in 2025. The organization projects participation could reach nearly 3,000 people within five years once new facilities are operational.
Facility Plans and Design
The proposed expansion includes a front building of approximately 12,000 square feet that will serve as the First Tee Learning Center and clubhouse, with public access planned. A second structure, roughly 5,000 square feet, will function as a Teaching and Coaching Center featuring indoor golf simulators, putting areas, and classroom space. Together, these additions aim to enable programming throughout the year and accommodate elementary school field trips and partnerships with other nonprofits.
First Tee Idaho has extended its lease on the Pierce Park Greens property to 50 years, providing stability for long-term operations and capital investment. The organization began developing its comprehensive property vision in 2022 and is now moving toward formal approval processes.
Mission and Community Impact
Burke Spensky, affiliated with the organization, emphasized that First Tee Idaho’s focus extends beyond golf instruction. “We’re not teaching kids to play on the PGA Tour, be great golfers. We’re teaching people to be great role models and leaders throughout life,” Spensky noted, as first reported by the KIVI 6 On Your Side. The mission reflects the nonprofit’s commitment to character development and youth leadership, not competitive athletics.
The year-round programming limitation has been a persistent constraint. Nick Blasius of First Tee Idaho stated that expanding indoor facilities would address this gap: “One of the areas we’ve always been limited is the fact that we can’t offer year-round programming.” Winter weather has historically restricted activities to warmer months, limiting the organization’s ability to serve youth consistently throughout the year.
Timeline and Approvals
A conditional-use application has not yet been officially submitted to Ada County or the City of Boise, though construction is projected to begin in the second quarter of 2027. Approval from city and county authorities, along with completion of fundraising, will determine the actual start date.
The expansion arrives as the Boise area experiences rapid population growth. The Treasure Valley population has grown by approximately 300,000 residents in recent years, increasing demand for youth programming and community recreational facilities.
What Comes Next
Residents and community leaders interested in the project should monitor upcoming Ada County and Boise city planning processes for the conditional-use application and related public hearings. First Tee Idaho will need approval from local authorities before construction can proceed. The organization may also announce fundraising campaigns to support the $10 million-plus project cost.
For more information about First Tee Idaho’s current programming, visit the organization’s official website or contact Pierce Park Greens directly. Current participants and families can track announcements regarding facility expansion and new program offerings as details become available.