Virginia Beach National Renovation Plan Balances Golf and Growth

Virginia Beach National Golf Club could be headed for a significant transformation under a proposal unveiled by The Dragas Companies that combines major golf course reinvestment with residential development while maintaining the facility’s public golf mission.

The Virginia Beach-based developer has proposed purchasing the approximately 350-acre, city-owned property and investing roughly $38 million in golf course improvements and facility upgrades. The plan would preserve the course as a publicly accessible 18-hole golf destination while addressing infrastructure and maintenance challenges that have accumulated over the past two decades.

According to city officials, Virginia Beach National, originally designed by renowned architect Pete Dye and opened in 1999, has experienced declining conditions in recent years, including shoreline erosion, deteriorating cart paths, aging infrastructure, and overgrown waste areas that have impacted the player experience.

Under the proposal, noted golf course architect Timothy Liddy, a longtime associate and protégé of Pete Dye, would lead a comprehensive redesign and restoration effort. The redevelopment would also include a new maintenance facility, upgraded practice and course infrastructure, and extensive clubhouse renovations featuring enhancements to dining, retail, and locker room areas.

To oversee daily operations, Dragas plans to partner with Century Golf Partners, a national golf management company that operates numerous golf facilities, including the Walt Disney World golf portfolio.

The golf improvements would be funded through a combination of Dragas’ proposed $17.94 million property purchase, a contribution from the Virginia Beach Development Authority, and additional private investment from the developer.

The broader development plan includes the construction of approximately 659 homes on portions of the property, while preserving the golf course and maintaining public access. The proposal also includes dedicated open space, woodland preservation, and a site reserved for a future childcare facility.

A key component of the agreement would allow the City of Virginia Beach to retain a 99-year repurchase option should the property ever cease operating as a public golf course, providing long-term protection for public golf access.

If approved by city officials, renovations could begin in 2027, with the revitalized course expected to reopen in 2028. Virginia Beach City Council is scheduled to consider the proposed sale and redevelopment plan in July.

Source: Adapted from reporting by Josh Janney, Virginia Business, “Dragas unveils plans to redevelop Virginia Beach National Golf Course,” published June 17, 2026.