East Potomac closure paused as federal judge blocks Trump from closing historic golf course

Judge pauses planned closure

Judge Reyes sided with a D.C. preservation group and two local golfers who challenged the planned shutdown of East Potomac Park. The course, known as East Potomac Golf Links, opened in the 1920s.

The plaintiffs argued the closure was tied to plans to replace the existing course with a championship-style design by architect Tom Fazio. The administration has described the proposed venue as a “world class championship” course.

Tree removal escalated dispute

Reyes has overseen the challenge for months. Last month, after the National Park Service told the judge it would remove trees at the course, the agency cut down more than 500 trees over a weekend. Reyes then barred further tree felling and directed the Justice Department to notify her about planned National Park Service actions at the golf course.

Administration cites safety concerns

The administration said the entire park needed to close because of a deteriorating sea wall and safety risks at the golf course. It also cited the National Links Trust’s plan to stop operating the course as of Nov. 15.

A notice published Friday said the government would seek a contract for work on 20,700 linear feet of shortline and sea wall infrastructure. At Friday’s hearing, Reyes questioned whether the closure date was driven by repair needs or by President Trump’s plan to overhaul the course.