Is Cedar Rapids missing mini golf?

I was surprised to read in Wednesday's Gazette that Cedar Rapids lacks a mini golf course. As the owner of a mini golf course located in Hiawatha, just 2.5 miles from Twin Pines Golf Course, I thought our course was already providing 'kid-centered fun” for families in the Cedar Rapids area.

When we purchased AirFX Trampoline Park in July 2019, my family and I immediately began work on renovating the 18-hole mini golf course. The lighted course, which includes a pond and waterfall, is ADA-accessible and features a variety of fun challenges. After months of work replacing turf and installing new landscaping, we opened FX Mini-Golf for the 2020 season.

I share the City Council's enthusiasm for outdoor family fun, but I am skeptical of the numbers that they are basing their decision on. To reach the estimated $193,050 of annual income, you would need almost 200 really good days of mini golf every year. Based on my experience, I would say the revenue numbers appear overly optimistic. On the cost side, there is maintenance, repair, marketing and other expenses that must be considered over and above the cost of paying staff. It seems unlikely that this project will net $170,000 per year.

If you are missing mini golf, I would like to invite the City Council to come play a round at AirFX. We are just a 10 minute drive from downtown Cedar Rapids!

Doug Goetzinger

Cedar Rapids