BUSHKILL, PA — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area Superintendent John J. Donahue announced that a proposal submitted by Joseph Stead of Milford to lease the 45.3-acre Cliff Park Golf Course has been awarded by the National Park Service (NPS). The new lessee hopes to re-open the course to golfers this fall.

The National Park Service issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a 10-year lease of the nine-hole par 35 Cliff Park Golf Course in May. One proposal was submitted for consideration. Stead’s proposal outlines a comprehensive plan to successfully rehabilitate, market and run the golf course.

“Stead’s extensive experience as a golf course manager and as a PGA golf professional combined with his business acumen and dedication to environmental sustainability and National Park Service values make him an ideal operator for this property,” said Donahue. “We are confident that he will bring Cliff Park Golf Course back to its former glory and operate a successful business.”

Stead and NPS officials gathered at park headquarters recently to sign the lease agreement. “I am extremely proud to have the privilege to run this golf course, one of only a handful located in a national park. It is an important part of the park and the local community and it is near and dear to my own heart,” said Stead.

For more information on Cliff Park Golf course, including fees, memberships, and hours of operation, visit www.cliffpark.com in the coming weeks.