772 N Forest Rd | Amherst, NY 14221 (716)858-8355 Office Hrs 8am-4pm M-F
History
On September 25, 2025, the Town of Amherst approved the transfer of 170 acres at North Forest and Sheridan Drive to Erie County.
The site, originally known as Willowdale, a Jewish Club, was founded in 1919 and opened for play as a nine-hole golf course in 1921. The course was designed by two-time Open Champion Willie Park, Jr. The site was sold, renamed Westwood, and expanded to an 18-hole golf course in 1945. In 2012, it was sold to Mensch Capital and closed in 2014. The Town of Amherst purchased the property in 2023.
Erie County will transform the area into a public park, including a 9-hole golf course and passive park land. The Town of Amherst will construct an inclusive playground, event space, and restroom facility on the 8 acres in the southeast corner of the park. Willowdale was originally a 9-hole course and 7 of those 9 holes will be restored. The passive park will include walking trails, educational signage, viewing areas, and benches. A Master Plan will be developed for this park which will help guide us in any future amenities. The golf course is anticipated to open in 2027.
Learn more about the history of the Westwood Country Club
Facilities/Activities
Park Hours
Winter (Labor to Memorial Day): 7 am - Dusk
Summer (Memorial to Labor Day): 7am - 9pm
This park is not yet open to the public
