Judge temporarily blocks Donald Trump's plan to close Washington golf course for renovation

A federal judge has temporarily blocked President Donald Trump's plan to close a public golf course in Washington, DC for renovation. US District Judge Ana C. Reyes issued the restraining order, preventing the government from closing East Potomac Park and its golf course between November 15 and November 28 or until further court action.

Reyes deemed the administration's reasons for shutting the site "pretextual" and believed the closure likely violated federal environmental and administrative laws. She argued that the closure would "irreparably harm" golfers and preservationists who challenged the project, stating, "The Government proposes to close a historic park, daily enjoyed by Washingtonians of all stripes, indefinitely."

The plan, proposed in May, involves transforming East Potomac Golf Links into a championship-level venue designed by golf architect Tom Fazio. The redevelopment faced opposition from the DC Preservation League and two local golfers, who claimed it would alter the character of the historic facility and reduce access for regular golfers.

The administration had initially planned to close the site for 15 months to complete the overhaul. The dispute escalated in October after over 400 trees were removed from the grounds, leading to a temporary halt in further tree removal and additional notice requirements for significant changes to the site. Judge Reyes criticized the National Park Service for not following proper procedures, including notifying the public and soliciting comments before proceeding with the closure.

Trump criticized the judge on social media, calling the course "Trash Island" and arguing that it was dangerous and in need of repairs. The Justice Department stated it would continue defending the administration's plan in court, while the National Park Service could still restrict access when public safety was at risk. The ruling is a setback for Trump's efforts to reshape parts of Washington, including other projects facing court challenges.