Wisconsin will host one of golf’s biggest events in 2017, when the U.S. Open will be played in Washington County at the Erin Hills golf course.
Governor Jim Doyle says it’s a major honor for the state, and will help bring a global focus on Wisconsin and a chance to show off the beauty of the state across the world.
USGA President Jim Hyler says Wisconsin and the Erin Hills course seemed like a perfect fit for the U.S. Open and the organization will be pleased to host its national championship on the course.
The 652-acre course is located off Highway 83, about 35 miles northwest of Milwaukee. Two-lane roads make up most of the area, although Doyle says lessons learned from pro golfing events held in other parts of the state will help limit traffic concerns. In particular, Doyle says events at Whistling Straits have shown turning making traffic one-way will help to solve many problems. He says the state will work closely with local communities to help prepare for the event.
Doyle expects the location to have an impact on communities across the region, with the close proximity to Milwaukee, Madison, and the Fox Valley. The Governor Doyle says U.S. Open events in other states have brought in over $160 million to local economies.