FARMINGTON – The city of Farmington plans to make improvements to Piñon Hills Golf Course, the city’s municipal course.

Georgette Allen, spokeswoman for the city, said the infrastructure is more than 30 years old.

“It has all outlived its lifespan and is in critical need of replacement,” Allen said. “It is failing faster than we can repair new problems.”

The golf course infrastructure was built in 1988 and hasn’t had any updates aside from repairs as they occur.

One of the most pressing issues is leaks from the irrigation system.

Farmington Mayor Nate Duckett said leaks are a challenge because the golf course sits on sandstone, which doesn’t allow much give for pipes like traditional soft soil.

The leaks are so persistent that it is one staff member’s sole job to fix leaks as they occur, said Chris Jones, golf course manager.

Allen said repairs and updates are proposed for the clubhouse, cart paths, irrigation system and bunkers.

The estimated cost of the project will be $2 million to $3 million, but because the projects still need to go out to bid, the exact dollar figure isn’t yet available.

Allen said City Council has several options to choose from when it comes to funding the project, including pursuing a bond.

mmitchell@durangoherald.com