US district judge Ana Reyes has ordered a halt to tree-cutting at the East Potomac golf course in Washington DC, with the pause set to last until 26 October. This decision further delays work on the historic course, which is part of Donald Trump’s plans to redevelop the capital city.
Judge Reyes issued the order on Tuesday, following a tense three-hour hearing where she criticised the government for allegedly deceiving her with its actions over the holiday weekend. During that hearing, a 24-hour pause was initially ordered, with the possibility of extension.
The judge also stipulated that the government must now provide the court and plaintiffs with three business days’ written advance notice before making any irreparable modification to any permanent form or feature of the East Potomac golf course.
The president has been working to transform the course into a world-class golf venue, alongside other projects to remake or rename structures in Washington DC since early 2025.