Trump Orders 15-Month Closure of DC Golf Course Amid Court Battle

President Donald Trump has announced plans to close the historic East Potomac Golf Course in Washington, D.C., for 15 months starting Nov. 15 to begin a major renovation, despite a federal court order halting construction-related work ^[1]. The course, located near the White House and dating back 106 years, is being rebranded as a world-class championship facility capable of hosting events like the U.S. Open and the Ryder Cup ^[2]. Trump claims the current course is "old, broken, dilapidated, and of no further use or effect," citing dangerous trees and a collapsing seawall.

A federal judge, Ana Reyes, issued a temporary restraining order last week, halting the removal of hundreds of trees over a holiday weekend without proper court notice ^[2]. The judge ruled that any irreversible changes to the site require at least three business days’ notice to the court and the plaintiffs, including the D.C. Preservation League and two local golfers. The plaintiffs argue the project would transform a public recreation space into a high-end course, undermining its accessibility ^[1].

Trump’s announcement on Truth Social did not acknowledge the court challenge, instead promoting the project as a "tremendously positive" economic opportunity that would create jobs ^[2]. He cited famed golf architect Tom Fazio and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum as key figures in the redesign. The president also claimed the course was originally built with few trees to offer unobstructed views of the city, a point critics say ignores the site’s long-standing ecological and recreational value ^[1].

According to ^[1], debris from the White House East Wing demolition—part of Trump’s broader renovation plans—has been dumped on the course grounds, though this claim has not been confirmed by other sources.

The legal battle over the course has triggered emergency hearings, with opponents warning the project could permanently alter the character of a public park used by people of all income levels ^[1].

What happens next remains uncertain. The court’s order remains in effect through Oct. 26, but Trump’s announcement signals a defiant push to move forward. The outcome may hinge on whether the court grants a more permanent injunction or allows the project to proceed under strict oversight. The story was first reported by The Independent and CBS News.