Judge extends block on Trump’s renovation plans for East Potomac Golf Course

A federal judge has extended a court order blocking renovation plans for the East Potomac Golf Course in Washington, D.C., according to WTOP. The preliminary injunction prevents the government from removing or damaging any more trees on the century-old public golf course while a lawsuit is ongoing.

U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes requires the Trump administration to provide 10 days' written notice before making any irreversible modifications to the course's features. Reyes emphasized that her ruling is about upholding the rule of law, not environmental advocacy.

The legal dispute began after the Trump administration announced plans to close the golf course for 15 months starting November 15 to redevelop the 106-year-old park and course. The D.C. Preservation League and two golfers filed suit, claiming the renovations cause irreversible damage.

Judge Reyes criticized the government for cutting down at least 400 trees over a holiday weekend with little notice to the plaintiffs. She also expressed surprise that the government asked her to disregard President Trump's statements regarding the renovation plans.

The course renovation project is part of the Trump administration's broader efforts to leave a personal imprint on Washington's historic landscape, which have included plans for a large ballroom at the White House, a massive arch, and proposals to add Trump's name to the Kennedy Center.