A federal judge temporarily blocked President Trump’s plan to close East Potomac Park and begin transforming its golf course, keeping the federally owned Washington, D.C., site open for now. Judge Ana Reyes said the planned closure appeared to be the first step in the redevelopment, which would replace the existing courses with an 18-hole championship layout.

By the Numbers
  • East Potomac currently has 36 holes: one 18-hole course and two nine-hole courses.
  • More than 400 trees were cut down last month.
  • The proposed redevelopment would close the park and course for 15 months.
Yes, But

Trump has called the course dangerous and poorly designed, arguing for a championship-level replacement. Opponents say the proposal would reduce public recreational space and displace an accessible, affordable golf option; the judge also barred further tree removal without court approval.

State of Play
  • The course and park remain open under the temporary restraining order.
  • The government has submitted its redevelopment proposal to the National Capital Planning Commission.
  • The ruling does not require the administration to operate the golf course while the case proceeds.
Bottom Line

The court has paused the planned closure, not settled the park’s future. The dispute now centers on whether a major redesign can proceed without sacrificing public access and recreational space.