Pinehurst No. 2, the legendary Donald Ross course that has served as the site of more championships than any other in the U.S., celebrated its grand reopening today following a restoration project that has returned natural and strategic character that had been lost over time.

The yearlong Coore & Crenshaw project, which has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, has transformed a course that was known primarily for its greens into one that will have golfers rediscovering the variety and unique characteristics that once made No. 2 one of the country’s most cherished courses.

The restored No. 2 has no rough, larger playing areas, more strategic shot options, and a return to the natural aesthetics of sand, hardpan and native wiregrass that befit the area and are reminiscent of Ross’ original design.

“We expect that this restoration will have golfers falling in love with Pinehurst No. 2 all over again,” said Bob Dedman Jr., CEO and owner of Pinehurst Resort. “Since my family bought Pinehurst almost 30 years ago, we’ve always sought to preserve and enhance its soul. With this project, we think Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore recaptured what makes No. 2 truly special, what will make it continue to stand the test of time.”

Referencing historic photos of the course that date to the 1940s, Coore & Crenshaw uncovered intriguing tee-to-green variety and definition that had long been covered by wall-to-wall grass, creating a perfect, strategic complement to No. 2’s famed crowned greens.

“We think the world of Pinehurst No. 2, and we just hope that if Donald Ross could see it, that he’d be pleased with what we’ve done,” Crenshaw said. “It was truly an honor to be involved in this project, and we hope people enjoy playing it as much as we enjoyed working on it.”

The genesis of the $2.5 million project began in 2008. Despite holding two successful U.S. Open championships in 1999 and 2005, Pinehurst officials recognized that No. 2 had come to look, feel and play like too many other courses.

“We could have continued with the status quo, but we felt that something was missing,” said Pinehurst President Don Padgett II. “Pinehurst was always meant to stand apart, to embrace its natural elements and to offer a unique atmosphere of creativity. We felt the time was right to embrace the original character of No. 2.

The project was undertaken by Pinehurst Resort to elevate the experience for members and resort guests, who play No. 2 every day. The United States Golf Association was consulted throughout the process, as Pinehurst will, in 2014, become the first to host the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open championships in consecutive weeks.

“My mouth literally falls open when I see the incredible work that they’ve done,’’ said USGA Executive Director Mike Davis. “I’ve got to say, I’m so excited about 2014, because it’s going to be a very unique U.S. Open.”