The National Park Service has awarded contracts to begin renovations on the East Potomac Golf Links, a project spearheaded by former President Donald Trump, according to House Natural Resources Committee Democrats. The move comes amid ongoing concerns from lawmakers that the administration is moving to privatize a historic public resource without adequate public input or congressional notification.
Rep. Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), the committee's ranking member, revealed during a hearing that a civil engineering firm was hired for nearly $400,000 to conduct environmental and historic preservation compliance work at the golf course. Huffman stated that this contract with Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. is part of a larger effort, with a projected construction contract valued up to $49 million expected to be solicited by January 31, 2027.
Huffman criticized the administration's approach, asserting that the project represents a "methodical, deliberate effort to take a public park away from the people" and transform it into a private club. He emphasized the historic significance of East Potomac Park, established by Congress in 1897 for public recreation and enjoyment, and criticized the use of taxpayer funds for the renovation.
Democrats on the committee, including Reps. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), Glenn Ivey (D-Md.), Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), and Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.), have sent a letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and acting Park Service Director Jessica Bowron demanding all documents and communications related to the project. "East Potomac Park does not belong to Donald Trump," the lawmakers wrote. "It belongs to the American people, and it has for more than a century."
An Interior Department spokesperson responded that the full course design is not finalized and that any cost estimates are premature. The Trump administration has previously announced an agreement with Fazio Golf Design for renovation plans, aiming to create a "world-class golf venue" capable of hosting major tournaments.
The East Potomac Golf Links, which opened in 1919, is part of East Potomac Park, a public space created over a century ago. Concerns have been raised by some residents that the planned renovations could alter the park's character, potentially leading to higher fees and a reduction in accessible public space. The Park Service has also faced scrutiny over the dumping of debris from the White House's East Wing demolition at East Potomac, which tested positive for toxic metals.