Judge Ana Reyes today issued an order stopping the Trump administration from cutting any more trees at the East Potomac Golf Course, a 106‑year‑old public green that has already lost about 400 trees during its planned overhaul.\n
\nThe order follows the court’s earlier temporary halt on October 26 and requires the government to deliver ten business days’ written notice before undertaking any irreversible changes to the course. The ruling comes as the DC Preservation League and two local golfers filed suit in February, arguing that the renovation violates environmental statutes and erases a historic Washington landmark.\n
\nPresident Donald Trump, who announced the course would close on November 15 and begin construction the next day, has vowed to appeal the decision. He criticized Judge Reyes for “inexcusable” actions and said the project is essential to modernise the course, improve safety and competitiveness.\n
\nThe court’s injunction will remain in force while the lawsuit proceeds, but the administration is already preparing for a federal appeal that could delay the project further. Meanwhile, the local golfing community, including a veteran club member who has played the course for 30 years, says the changes threaten not only the green but also the cultural fabric of Washington’s historic greens.