Interior Dept. plans to close East Potomac Golf Course by Nov. 15 amid court fight

The Department of the Interior has confirmed in a court filing that it is moving forward with plans to close East Potomac Golf Links on November 15, according to FOX 5 DC. This closure is part of President Trump's initiative to convert the course into a championship-level facility.

The filing states the Interior Department is developing a plan to implement the project and will inform the court accordingly. This acknowledgment follows a social media post by President Trump mentioning the potential closure date, which has intensified ongoing legal disputes.

Opponents, including local community members and the group Save East Potomac, criticize the closure, arguing it threatens longstanding area traditions such as the Cherry Blossom Ten Mile and 5K events held in April. They also express concern that the redevelopment would reduce affordable public recreation by creating an exclusive facility.

A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction requiring at least 10 business days' notice before any closure and has prohibited the removal or damage of trees in the park. This order follows incidents where over 100 trees were removed without prior notice.

A court hearing to determine the future of the golf course is expected in the near future, as reported by FOX 5 DC.