Indoor Golf Simulator Facility Approved By Greenwich P&Z Commission

GREENWICH, CT — Residents will soon be able to work on their golf game or go out for a night with friends at a new indoor golf simulator facility in Greenwich.

Last week, the Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved the project for Rock Pile Golf at 600 W. Putnam Ave., replacing Greenwich Crossfit. There are also two medical practices and a Citarella Gourmet Market at the site.

The commission granted approval with a condition based on the availability of parking spaces.
The project will convert 5,595 square feet of existing fitness space into a recreational facility with six golf simulator rooms, putting area, bar and locker room "and associated facilities," according to application documents.The facility will operate Monday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

During the first half of the day, there will be three employees on site, and after 3 p.m., there will be five employees. Alcohol service would not begin until 4 p.m., application documents state.

The commission had been concerned about parking for the facility. Thirteen spots are dedicated for the business.

John Heagney, attorney for the applicant, explained during last week's meeting that the six golf simulator bays would be managed with an appointment system.

"That will allow Rock Pile to control how many people are coming and when they're coming," Heagney said. "The first half of the day, they're expecting the majority of the use of this space is going to be for individual instruction."

One person per simulator bay is expected, which can be easily handled by the 13 spaces, Heagney said.

The two medical practices on the property close at 4 p.m., so on evenings and weekends, an additional 32 parking spaces would open up for Rock Pile Golf, Heagney said.

As part of their approval, the commissioners requested a letter from the landlord of 600 W. Putnam Ave., indicating that when those spaces open up, there will be priority use for Rock Pile Golf.

"Our concern is that the lot gets tight sometimes, and in the evening we think it eases up. We just want the landlord to acknowledge your use and that they will prioritize it and make it available," Commission Chair Margarita Alban said.

There will be 13 seats in the bar area, eight in the lounge and four in a seating area.