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yesterday

Trump Administration Terminates D.C. Public Golf Lease, Pausing Renovations

The nonprofit operator rejects the default claims, keeping the courses open for now.

Tall trees tower over golfers on the Rock Creek Park Golf Course on October 31, 2023, in Washington, DC.
A golfer tees off as a dump truck exits a makeshift dump site after dropping soil and debris from the East Wing of the White House, where U.S. President Donald Trump's proposed ballroom is being built, at the East Potomac Golf Course in Washington, D.C., U.S., October 23, 2025. REUTERS/Jessica Koscielniak
Former President Donald Trump takes a swing during a practice round of the LIV Golf Bedminster golf tournament at Trump National Bedminster.
Donald Trump at Trump National Golf Club in Sterling, V.A., on May 25, 2023.

Overview

  • The Interior Department ended the National Links Trust's 50-year lease on Dec. 31 after issuing a default notice on Oct. 29 that set a cure deadline.
  • Officials said the group failed to complete required capital improvements and owed rent, while the nonprofit cites approved rent offsets and $8.5 million invested.
  • Day-to-day operations will continue to keep East Potomac, Rock Creek, and Langston open, but all long-term work has stopped, including Rock Creek’s in-progress rehabilitation.
  • The administration has not released a plan for the courses, though President Trump has publicly discussed potential redesigns and lower rates for D.C. residents.
  • Local leaders and golf advocates warn the shift could threaten affordable public access and the cultural legacy of Langston, a landmark in Black golf history.