FEATURE STORY

Golf-course security goes high tech at Frenchman's Creek in Florida

By S. Adam Cardais,
Staff Writer

Frenchman's Creek, a golf community in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, has taken course security to the next level with a new customized golf cart fitted with infra-red thermal imaging and GPS tracking systems for nightly grounds patrols.

The cart's Thermal-Eye 4000M infrared camera - a model used by the U.S. military - can pick up activity in the dark at a distance of 1,500 feet, and its GPS system is programmed with directions to all 600 homes in the community.

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The cart is the first in what Frenchman's Creek plans as a fleet of three. Manufactured by electric-car producer G.E.M., the carts cost about $16,000 each.

"We've always been known for our state-of-the-art security at Frenchman's Creek, and we believe this is the first time that a country club has ever integrated mobile 'night vision' technology into tactical operations and perimeter security," Frenchman's Creek Executive Director Achal Goswami said in a statement.

Security at Frenchman's Creek, which has two 18-hole golf courses, brings to mind the United Nations or Fort Knox. Visitors to the community are greeted by armed guards, and security patrols that include a medical team circulate through the grounds all day. A special marine patrol monitors the section of the Intracoastal Waterway that flows through the community.

Though Palm Beach Gardens is in an affluent part of Florida with a low crime rate, there is reason for this level of security at Frenchman's Creek, which takes its name from a novel by Daphne du Maurier. Home prices in the community run in the millions - and not the single-digit millions, either.

In a written response to questions, Goswami said security is a priority for Frenchman's Creek residents and that the community has gotten positive feedback about the cart.

"Our members are extremely satisfied with the addition to the enhanced, high-tech security features," he said.

In addition to its two golf courses, Frenchman's Creek has a tennis club, fitness center and spa. The community is minutes away from a private beach club with a seafood restaurant.

March 8, 2007

Any opinions expressed above are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the management. The information in this story was accurate at the time of publication. All contact information, directions and prices should be confirmed directly with the golf course or resort before making reservations and/or travel plans.