Plans to transform the East Potomac Golf Links in Washington, D.C., into a high-end, championship-caliber golf venue are raising concerns among local residents who fear the changes will diminish the park's accessibility and affordability.
President Donald Trump has expressed interest in revamping the historic golf course, part of East Potomac Park, which was established by a congressional act in 1897 for the "recreation and the pleasure of the people." The golf course itself opened in 1919 and has since served as a public space enjoyed by a diverse range of Washingtonians.
Residents highlighted the park's accessibility and affordability, with one golfer noting he paid $36 for a round of nine holes, including a cart. They worry that transforming the venue into an upscale facility will lead to increased fees and a reduction in public access.
"It takes away the history of the links here as well as deprives people of having a reasonably inexpensive place to play that is readily accessible to everyone," said Joe Foley, a golfer in his 70s.
Trump has discussed making changes to the city's public courses since late 2025. He posted on social media in June that the redesigned course "will have the ability to host Major Golf Tournaments, including The U.S. Open, The Ryder Cup, The PGA Championship, and other top PGA Tour events." While work was initially slated to begin Sept. 1, no activity was evident at the site.
An image unveiled in May by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum depicted an 18-hole course intended to offer "championship-quality golf at affordable, highly discounted rates."
A lawsuit has been filed challenging the proposed renovation, arguing that the redevelopment would contravene the congressional act that created the park. The government is contesting the plaintiffs' standing to sue.
Some park users expressed wariness about potential changes, citing Trump's track record with other Washington projects where, they claim, irrevocable changes were made rapidly. U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes acknowledged the plaintiffs' concerns about alterations made before proper approval at a recent court hearing, though she noted a lack of evidence for this specific case.
The administration has already removed dozens of trees from the park, which it states is routine maintenance.
During a recent visit, the park was utilized by cyclists, retirees, workers on lunch breaks, and golfers. Many spoke about visiting the park due to its location, cost, and history, while also acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding its future.
Cyclist Jason Levitt, who has frequented the park for 20 years, emphasized its role as a safe space for recreation away from city traffic. He expressed hope that any changes would benefit everyone, not just a specific group of golfers.
Washington's autonomy has been a subject of debate, with Congress holding significant control over city affairs. This dynamic has been further influenced under Trump, whose administration previously implemented a law enforcement surge that temporarily federalized local police and deployed the National Guard.
Outgoing Mayor Muriel Bowser commented that the city could "stand to attract world-class golf," but stressed the continued need for public access.
Ryan Bates, who plays at East Potomac weekly, stated, "The most important tenet of it is that golf should be an approachable game for people that come from all walks of life."