Geoff,
The green was "softened" over the winter. I haven't seen it yet but will be in New York in two weeks and intend to go by and have a look.
The decision to do this was NOT at the behest of the USGA, though in speaking with Mike Davis about it, he feels that it was a good idea because it will allow for more hole locations. I am not so sure.
The "softening" will have nothing to do with getting the Open back to Bethpage. The main problem is Albany and the atmosphere of the government in charge when negotiations take place. Now that two Opens have been held there the thinking is akin to the federal government after we landed in the moon... been there, done that so how will doing this help me politically now? The greatest danger are the rumors I hear about drastic maintenance budget cuts for the facility that the"bean counters" are urging. Some of the rumors are in the range of close to 50%!
Despite that, the USGA needs Bethpage in its rotation of courses. It is certainly worthy as a challenge and definitely provides a positive cash flow in amounts that far exceed all other venues. If anything, that alone will bring it back...
Finally, a balance does have to struck as the USGA also wants to have Opens held at both Winged Foot and Shinnecock again. It is my understanding that "quiet" talks have been going on at both for some time.