Hillcrest GC Demolished for High-End Renovation

635 Holdings, the owner of the Kansas City, Mo. club, plans a roughly $30 million renovation of the 18-hole, Donald Ross-designed course and its facilities. Once complete, the property will be transformed into a private club.

Demolition work has begun at Hillcrest Golf Club in Kansas City, Mo., signaling the start of a major transformation into a private club.

Industrial Wrecking & Salvage Co. has been tearing down the old clubhouse and pool house at the behest of owner 635 Holdings. The investment firm, led by Robb Heineman, plans a roughly $30 million renovation of the 18-hole course and its facilities.

Heineman, a former Hillcrest member, envisions a “Top 100” golf course. The goal is to create a “premier” private club, not just another ordinary course.

Originally opened in 1916 as a country club, Hillcrest was once home to Missouri’s only Donald Ross-designed course. It transitioned to public play before closing last winter.

To restore the course’s original character, 635 Holdings will collaborate with golf architect Tripp Davis & Associates and the Donald Ross Society. The renovated course will feature a 400-yard driving range and a new clubhouse with food and beverage options. Local architect Hufft is designing the clubhouse, which will incorporate restored limestone from the original building.

The developer aims to preserve the old clubhouse chimneys and is currently selling new club memberships. Construction could begin this fall, with preview play in fall 2025 and a grand reopening in spring 2026.

Heineman reports positive feedback on the project. The Hillcrest renovation is one of several Midwestern projects that could benefit from a partnership between 635 Holdings and BR Cos.