President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that the East Potomac Golf Links in Washington, D.C., will close for 15 months starting November 15 to undergo a major redesign into a championship-level public golf course. The closure marks the beginning of construction under a plan developed by the Department of the Interior, led by Secretary Doug Burgum, and golf course architect Tom Fazio, who has designed over 200 courses in the U.S.
The project includes a temporary halt to tree removal pending court review. A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order on October 13, blocking the administration from cutting additional trees at the course until at least October 26. The order requires the government to provide three business days’ written notice to the court and plaintiffs before making any irreversible modifications. The dispute stems from conflicting reports over the number of trees removed: the administration reported cutting 430 trees, while plaintiffs claim 529 were removed on October 10.
The renovation aims to transform the existing course into a venue capable of hosting major tournaments such as the U.S. Open, PGA Championship, Ryder Cup, and Presidents Cup. Trump described the current course as deteriorated, unsafe, and overgrown, citing dangerous trees, a collapsing seawall, and obscured views of Washington. He framed the project as an economic opportunity, estimating job creation and millions in economic benefits for the region.
Legal challenge delays progress
The DC Preservation League and golfers Alex Dickson and Dave Roberts filed a lawsuit against the administration, arguing the course is a community asset that should remain intact. Democracy Forward, representing the plaintiffs, stated the course is part of a national park and recreation facility meant for public enjoyment. A federal judge previously criticized the administration for proceeding with large-scale tree removal over a holiday weekend with minimal notice to the court.
Timeline and next steps
Construction is scheduled to begin November 15, with the new course expected to reopen to the public in approximately 15 months. The administration has not yet secured commitments from major golf organizations, though Trump stated the U.S. Golf Association, PGA of America, and PGA Tour had been notified of the plans. The temporary restraining order remains in effect until October 26, pending further court review.