Donald Trump makes a splash: His newly christened "Trash Island" in Washington, D.C. is envisioned to host the U.S. Open, PGA Championship, Ryder Cup, and Presidents Cup. After a complete overhaul, of course. This sounds like a par-5 monster leading directly into the political rough.
The site in question is East Potomac Golf Links, a 106-year-old facility on Hains Point, south of the White House, which currently features an 18-hole course, a nine-hole course, and mini-golf. Trump himself branded the area as "Trash Island" with photos of rubble and a dilapidated seawall, stating it urgently needs a complete renovation. His vision: a single 18-hole championship course, plus a clubhouse and driving range – publicly accessible, but ready for "world-class" tournaments.
Between Vision and Reality
However, locals who know the lay of the land see things a bit differently. For them, the course is well-frequented and, while needing investment, is far from being an unsafe no man's land. So, the ball is already rolling here, even if not always on the finest greens.
The Legal Tee-Off
Currently, the project is on hold. A federal judge has halted renovation work until at least October 26, while a lawsuit filed by the D.C. Preservation League and two golfers challenges Trump's vision. Already, over 400 trees have allegedly been felled, despite court orders and a temporary injunction. Things are truly heating up, both on and off the course.
