Economic conditions have golf plan sadly in the rough The Old Bridge municipal golf course idea has been a good one since it was broached many years ago. The proposal was an example of a town thinking outside the box to bring in a nice amenity for residents, and even some revenue, if all goes well. In fact, the concept of bringing a golf club to the nearly 200-acre site of two former farms at Amboy and Lambertson roads has received support from both sides of the political aisle over the course of two administrations. Unfortunately, the chances of this course becoming a reality anytime soon are slim to none. The town's chosen developer for the project, Far Hills Capital LLC, has informed officials that the project cannot move forward due to a lack of private financing options. The current economy has resulted in an inability to secure commercial loans for the project and the firm imagines this will only worsen due to ripple effects of the anticipated recession. The firm said the project is not feasible unless public funding avenues open up, and that has never been part of Old Bridge's plan, nor should it be. However, officials should not give up on this project. It had all the markings of a win-win situation. The public-private model had the township leasing out the land for the golf course while continuing its ownership. Far Hills would build, maintain and operate the course. The firm, chosen from several proposals, is comprised of professionals with experience designing golf courses. Parks and Recreation Director Tom Badcock once called its managing partners the New York Yankees of the golf course game. Course amenities for the 18- hole course would include wide fairways for a better range of play, a set of junior tees allowing children to play, and a lack of water hazards on the 6,300-foot green, a clubhouse, an open-air dining pavilion, a pro-shop, a driving range and a cart barn. Perhaps best of all, the fee structure for the course would offer Old Bridge residents lower rates than those who come to play from outside the township. Old Bridge officials are rightly disappointed to receive word that golf course is, for now, dead in the water. But perhaps some creative thinking will lead to ideas to get the project back on track. Otherwise, the community will just have to wait a bit longer for better economic times so this potential municipal jewel can be brought to town.