New York mayor Michael Bloomberg and city comptroller William Thompson have announced that the city has entered into negotiations with Sanford Golf Design for the design and construction management of a golf course at Ferry Point Park in the Bronx.

The planned course will be an 18 hole, links-style layout for public use, and will be built as a city-funded capital project.

Once the construction work is underway, the city will release a separate Request for Proposals for an operator to run the course as a concession. Completion is slated for autumn 2010.

"The selection of Sanford Golf Design for negotiations on this project is encouraging progress for Ferry Point Park," said Bloomberg. "The city is another step closer to hiring the team that will design and construct the course on top of the foundation already in place, eventually creating a world-class amenity for New Yorkers and visitors to enjoy." Thompson said: "I am pleased that the city recognises it is in the interest of all New Yorkers to quickly ensure that the goal of turning this former municipal landfill into an attractive recreational destination is accomplished. My hope is that in the near future, all can benefit from not just a golf course but a waterfront park and playground." Ferry Point Park will also include a seven-acre community park with a little league and a junior baseball field, basketball courts, a play area for children and a pedestrian trail. A separate 20 acre waterfront promenade will convert undeveloped parkland into a waterfront park with views of Long Island Sound, paths with seating, educational signage and access to the water.