Phil:
Go back to the early 80's when Bethpage did in fact itemize to the public the capital improvements they sought to make. The original focus was on improving the turf quality of the Black and in upgrading the sad condition of the bunkers. If you seek out back issues of The Met Golfer from that time frame you'll see mention of what I just said.
I can remember a number of times when playing Bethpage during the early 80's reading posted flyers -- and they were readily available for people to take with them -- itemizing what work was being planned and the related time table for completion. First, the emphasis was on the Black and then flyers were produced itemizing the nature of the proposed work for the Green Course.
This is clearly long before the push for the US Open and all the ensuing things that have happened since then.
It makes me wonder why the practice stopped and why other courses in the public realm don't follow suit.