A&M-Texarkana Acquires Texarkana Golf Ranch in Land Swap Deal

Big Changes Coming to Local Golf Course

A&M Texarkana just announced that it will officially take ownership of the former Texarkana Golf Ranch in September 2026.

The move comes after the Texarkana, Texas City Council approved a land swap during its July meeting. Under this agreement, the University will receive the golf course property, while the City will take ownership of 133 acres of nearby undeveloped land currently owned by the University. The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents approved the deal earlier this year during its May 2026 meeting.

Designed by renowned golf course architect Jim Fazio and opened in 2000, the course sits along the southeast shore of Bringle Lake and winds through pine trees. The par-72 course stretches more than 7,300 yards and has long been considered one of the area's most scenic golf destinations.

Major Improvements Planned

According to a press release, golfers can expect some major upgrades in the near future. While specific renovation plans and timelines have not yet been announced, A&M-Texarkana has already issued a request for proposals for design improvements and upgrades to the course.

The course will need to close for a period while work is underway, and current memberships will be placed on hold during that time.

Dr. Ross Alexander, President of Texas A&M University-Texarkana, explained the process,

We plan a comprehensive redesign and significant upgrades and improvements at the golf course, beginning very soon, with completion on an aggressive timeline. We appreciate the patience of the existing members as we work to make this golf course one of the premier public golf facilities in the region.

 

New Academic Opportunities

The golf course won't just serve as the future home of the Eagles golf teams. The acquisition will also create new educational opportunities for students.

Dr. Alexander added,

We will be able to add our first agricultural degree to our academic catalog. We will be offering a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with tracks in Plant and Soil Sciences and Golf Course Management.

University leaders say the goal is to create a top-tier public golf destination while also expanding academic offerings and hands-on learning opportunities for students. This sounds like a 'Win, Win' situation not only for A&M Texarkana but for all of Texarkana and surrounding areas.