A Golf Course for ‘the People’ Faces a Presidential Makeover
The plan would replace public access with championship-level golf and has drawn a lawsuit over whether it violates the park’s founding law.
- President Donald Trump plans to transform East Potomac Golf Links into a world-class venue, though a lawsuit argues the redevelopment violates the 1897 congressional act establishing the park for public recreation.
- Residents fear the overhaul will replace affordable, accessible space with elite facilities; debris from the demolished White House East Wing remains dumped at the site, creating a three-story mound near the course.
- Golfer Joe Foley, who pays $36 for nine holes, warned the region has many "championship caliber courses already" and argued golf should be an "approachable game for people that come from all walks of life."
- During a court hearing Thursday, U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes questioned the plaintiffs' case while acknowledging concerns about approval processes; Outgoing Mayor Muriel Bowser stated the city needs "public access" alongside any new golf.
- The golf project fits into President Trump's broader vision for Washington, which includes a $400 million ballroom; these developments follow a law enforcement surge that federalized local police and deployed the National Guard through 2029.
38 Articles
38 Articles
Trump golf plan sparks fears for affordable access at East Potomac Park
Washington residents are opposing Donald Trump's plan to redevelop East Potomac Golf Links into a championship venue. They fear the makeover could erode the park's affordable, open access for golfers, cyclists and other visitors.
A DC golf course for ‘the people’ faces a Trump makeover – WTOP News
East Potomac Park, including the East Potomac Golf Links, was created by a congressional act in 1897, which established the park for the “recreation and the pleasure of the people.” The course opened in 1919.
Donald Trump is planning a prestigious golf course in Washington. However, the US President's new construction project is threatening to become a disaster. After soil sinks and water problems, a dispute over tree falsifications could now condemn the project to failure.
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