Applications Filed To Revive Connecticut Golf Land In Vernon

VERNON, CT — Applications have been submitted to Vernon regulatory authorities by a company that wants to revive the old Connecticut Golf Land family entertainment center.

The applications were submitted last week, according to Vernon Economic Development Coordinator Shaun Gately. One is for a wetlands permit and the other is to the planning and zoning commission for the site plan and related special permits, Gately said.

The plans should be reviewed by local regulatory authorities "over the next couple of weeks" and a construction timetable can be formulated if the permits are granted, Gately said.

Gately described the plans as an including an "expanded entertainment" venue and a larger more modern clubhouse. The entertainment center would be modeled after similar businesses in the area, he said.

Some of the current equipment could be usable, Gately added.

Golf Land was actually named for its popular pitch-and-put course, which included one frightening hole that bordered the eastbound lanes of Interstate-84 and another requiring shots underneath live power lines. Gately was unsure about the new center including any of the old course, part of which is now a car dealership.

The old Connecticut Golf Land clubhouse (Chris Dehnel/Patch)

The proposal comes from CT Golf Land LLC and the principals are Steve LaMesa and Jerry Fornarelli, according to the application. Gately was unsure of what the formal name of the new center would be.

Gately was also unsure what the lease meant to the annual Summer Days Carnival, which has taken place on part of the Gold land property for years.

CT Golf Land LLC is leasing the old complex from longtime owner Peter Krause, Gately said.

Golf Land Closed in 2014 after 50 years in business.