The WM Phoenix Open is making a handful of tweaks to its signature 16th hole in 2026, with the build for the event now well underway. Construction began on Sept. 15 for the tournament. In 2026, the 16th hole stadium will be assembled using 100% reusable material, while the interior of the venue will have higher ceilings and wider concourses.
Frameless glass railings are being used on each level of the venue for the first time in 2026, creating more sightlines for fans.
“It will allow for much improved sightlines,” said Jason Eisenberg, the 2026 tournament chairman. “It will have a much more upscale feel and look.”
Additionally, the tournament is opening up a new hospitality option near the 16th green — the Pin Hi Club. The club is being built into the grandstand to the left side of the green — meaning that portion of the 16th hole will be four stories high. Between 200-220 daily tickets will be sold to the space, Eisenberg said, which will have the course’s top-end food and beverage served. Eisenberg said the tournament expected to announce pricing for the Pin Hi Club in the next 2-3 weeks.
The new club is gained real estate for the tournament, meaning no general admission seating will be impacted. Eisenberg said there are about 3,700 general admission seats on the 16th hole, with total capacity on the hole at about 14,000. The tournament works with InProduction on the build.
Also new this year, the kit for the 16th hole is 100% reusable, Eisenberg said. In the past, Eisenberg said the structure was only recyclable. Because of the new structure, construction began slightly earlier than years’ past — on Sept. 15 — and Eisenberg anticipates a four-month build.
