President Trump Announces Major Renovation of D.C. Golf Course Post-Tour Assessment

During his first-in-depth evaluation of the Washington, D.C., golf course earmarked for renovation, President Trump provided a detailed critique of the property’s current condition.

Following a visit to the century-old Blue Course at East Potomac Golf Links, Trump shared remarks via Truth Social, characterizing the course as “deteriorated, neglected, and hazardous,” pointing to risks such as falling tree limbs posing danger to players. He noted issues like a nonfunctional sprinkler system, lack of filtration, and inadequate watering capabilities. “The grass is largely dead, greens are nearly unplayable, and the entire course is in poor condition,” he stated.

Trump revealed the project will involve Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and architect Tom Fazio, who he selected to revamp the course. “This exceptional site, with its water features and views of D.C. Monuments, will become one of the finest golf courses globally,” he claimed. “Construction begins September 1 and will proceed swiftly,” he added.

Before construction commences legally, the National Park Service (NPS) must secure legal approvals. The Trump administration’s plans for East Potomac diverge significantly from the original Walter Travis design, eliminating nine of the course’s 18 holes. These changes have sparked concerns among local golfers regarding accessibility and rising green fees.

The proposed renovations triggered a February lawsuit from the DC Preservation League, followed by an emergency court order in May to halt NPS renovations. Judge actions have emphasized the necessity of court-approved plans to avoid severe repercussions for proceeding without consent, as highlighted by Rebecca Miller, the DC Preservation League’s executive director.

Miller advocates for an injunction to delay work until all stakeholder approvals are secured. She stresses that any modifications should align with preserving the Walter Travis design, as mandated by Section 106 of the Preservation Act. “The course’s historic value stems from its layout, not the land itself,” Miller emphasized. “Altering the arrangement would compromise its historical significance.”

A May “friend of the court” brief submitted by the Walter J. Travis Society reiterates this stance. While not seeking a freeze on the 1920 design or opposition to evolution in course design, the brief insists on adherence to legal and preservation standards. “The Park Service cannot disregard preservation laws,” it states. “Any changes must minimize adverse effects on the historic resource.”

Trump concluded his Truth Social post by affirming the course will be “engineered to the highest golf standards while ensuring public appeal.”

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