WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge issued instructions Monday requiring government officials to give advance warning before removing more than 10 trees at a historic Washington D.C. golf course that President Donald Trump intends to renovate.
During a virtual court session, U.S. District Court Judge Ana Reyes declined to immediately grant a temporary restraining order in the lawsuit filed by the DC Preservation League. However, she directed the National Park Service to coordinate with government attorneys before proceeding with the removal of more than 10 trees.
The court session followed an urgent legal filing by preservationists seeking to halt construction activities at the golf course, based on media reports indicating major renovation work was scheduled to commence Monday.
During the proceedings, Kevin Griess, who oversees the National Mall and Memorial Parks for the Park Service, stated that no major construction was planned for Monday, though he confirmed that safety evaluations were currently taking place.
Judge Reyes expressed her reluctance to micromanage park operations, referencing the popular television comedy series when she told the parties she didn’t want to function as the “Parks and Rec” department, while also emphasizing her concern about potential tree destruction.
“I’m no Amy Poehler,” she remarked, citing the comedy show’s lead actress.
During Monday’s session, the judge mentioned learning about closure notices allegedly posted at the location, prompting Griess to request verification. He subsequently confirmed that no such signage was present. Reyes requested notification to the government’s legal team if any closure signs were discovered.
The legal challenge against the Department of the Interior contends that the Trump administration’s plans to reconstruct East Potomac Park, which includes the East Potomac Golf Course, would breach the 1897 congressional legislation that established the park. The approximately 130-year-old law designated the park for “recreation and the pleasure of the people.” The golf facility itself began operations in 1919.
Trump, who is known for his passion for golf, also has plans to renovate a military golf facility located just outside Washington that has served presidents for many decades.
