The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables has shut down its classic, Donald Ross golf course in order to “enhance” Ross’ design.

The hotel has brought in Brian Silva to do the work. Silva is looking over original plans and studying aerial photos “to ensure that the original Donald Ross design is both preserved and enhanced,” according to the hotel.

I played this course, built in the 1930s, months ago and enjoyed it. It’s short, but has classic Ross features; still, I felt a lot more could be done with the course, and apparently the hotel is now following through.

All greens, tees and bunkers will be re-built and grasses to “contemporary standards,” the hotel said.

It’s a $5 million project and includes new free-span bridges, plus a restaurant, pro shop and club house improvements.

It’s scheduled to re-open in October. During the time the course is closed, the hotel will direct guests to Crandon Golf Key Biscayne course, not a bad deal since that’s the most scenic course I played in the Miami area. Free transportation will be provided.

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