The Villages Closes El Diablo Executive Course for Comprehensive Renovation

The Villages has launched a major renovation of its El Diablo Executive Golf Course as part of an ongoing investment in golf infrastructure, turf quality and long-term course sustainability across the community’s extensive golf portfolio.

The executive course is closing for a complete renovation that will include reconstruction of greens, tees and fairways, installation of new irrigation systems, drainage improvements and regrassing throughout the property. Reports tied to the project also indicate the renovation will feature Certified TifEagle Bermuda grass on the greens, along with new greens loops designed to improve water management and course conditioning.

The work is part of a broader capital improvement initiative underway at The Villages, where multiple executive courses have recently undergone or are scheduled for modernization projects aimed at enhancing playability, turf performance and maintenance efficiency.

Related – Maple Meadows Golf Course Renovation Targets 2027 Reopening

According to public reports, the Amenity Authority Committee earlier considered a $2.7 million bid package tied to renovations at both El Diablo and El Santiago executive courses.

For golf course superintendents and operators, the project reflects an increasing industry focus on infrastructure reinvestment as high-volume golf facilities address aging irrigation systems, drainage challenges and year-round turf stress. Executive courses in destination and residential golf communities often experience significantly higher rounds than traditional daily-fee facilities, placing added pressure on turf health and maintenance operations.

Originally opened in 1997, El Diablo previously underwent a major renovation in 2015. The course also experienced sinkhole-related repairs in recent years, highlighting the importance of long-term infrastructure planning in mature golf properties.

The Villages operates one of the largest and busiest golf networks in the United States, featuring dozens of executive and championship layouts that serve both residents and visiting golfers year-round.

Industry observers continue to view large-scale renovation programs such as this as a growing trend throughout the golf sector, particularly as facilities prioritize water management, improved turf varieties and upgraded maintenance systems designed to support consistent playing conditions while managing labor and operational costs.

About The Villages

The Villages is one of the nation’s largest active adult communities and features an expansive golf operation with numerous championship and executive golf courses throughout Central Florida.