The Future of Public Golf: A Tale of Two Cities and Hope in the Face of Uncertainty
The public golf landscape in the United States is experiencing a seismic shift, particularly highlighted by recent events in Washington, D.C. The announcement regarding the termination of the National Links Trust’s lease on three historic municipal courses—Rock Creek, East Potomac, and Langston—has sent shockwaves through the community of golf enthusiasts. This decision comes on the heels of former President Trump’s proposal to take over these courses, raising concerns about the future of public golf and its affordability. Fortunately, a glimmer of hope has emerged from the West Coast, as the National Links Trust pursues an exciting new partnership aimed at revitalizing an iconic public golf course in Washington State.
The implications of the Washington D.C. situation are vast, especially for advocates of municipal golf, who view these courses as essential to the community and accessible to a diverse range of players, regardless of socio-economic status. The lease termination, announced in late December, left many fans of public golf feeling disheartened and uncertain about the course’s future. However, just as judiciously as the clouds gathered, new rays of optimism broke through from the Pacific Northwest.
In a promising pivot, the National Links Trust has recently announced a groundbreaking initiative at the Camas Prairie Park in Washington State. This historic public golf property, located roughly 60 miles north of Seattle, was formerly known as the Port Townsend Golf Club and features a charming nine-hole course that has graced the landscape since 1904. Much more than just a golf venue, Camas Prairie Park serves as a multi-use public space that includes a driving range, disc golf area, walking trails, and even a restaurant. The site currently enjoys a significant upgrade due to two years of local stewardship that culminated in a 20-year lease extension granted at the end of 2025.
The newly forged alliance between the National Links Trust and the Friends of the Port Townsend Golf Park is built on a shared commitment to revitalizing this historic site while prioritizing affordability, environmental sustainability, and community access. One intriguing aspect of this venture is the construction of a Himalayas-style putting course—an innovative addition that is funded in part by a generous $250,000 grant from a family foundation. This offering is expected to invigorate the existing golfer population while attracting new players to the sport.
The timing of this announcement could be perceived as a strategic response to the challenges faced in D.C., but representatives from the Trust emphasize that this partnership has been in the works for months. “It might appear as if we’re preparing for a post-D.C. future, but that’s not the case,” stated a Trust spokesperson. “We are going on parallel paths.” With an eye on expansion, this partnership serves as a tangible step toward establishing a national footprint for the National Links Trust.
This encouraging news arrives amid significant uncertainty regarding the Trust’s vision for the municipal courses in Washington, D.C. Established in 2017 with a mission to revitalize Rock Creek, East Potomac, and Langston, the National Links Trust brought in esteemed architect Tom Doak to guide its renovation efforts. Since taking over operations in 2020, the organization has invested over $8.5 million in capital improvements, which significantly increased rounds played and generated higher revenue without raising green fees—keeping them amongst the lowest in any major municipal system in the country.
However, the recent lease termination has upended all these efforts. Following the decision, the National Links Trust publicly expressed its devastation, asserting that the Trump administration’s narrative of being in default under the lease was incorrect. The stakes are high, as the future management of these courses remains uncertain amidst ongoing political maneuverings.
As the situation unfolds, the path next for public golf in the nation’s capital remains murky. President Trump has promised to maintain affordability for local players. Reports indicate that he has met with renowned architect Tom Fazio, intending to oversee a redesign of the courses; however, no concrete plans have been unveiled as of yet. While the National Links Trust continues to manage the courses, its ability to execute long-term planning and budgeting is hampered by the prevailing ambiguity.
The current landscape facing public golf, particularly in urban areas like Washington, D.C., emphasizes the need for community-oriented initiatives like those at Camas Prairie Park. As cities grapple with rising costs and dwindling green spaces, efforts like those led by the National Links Trust may become more critical than ever. Advocates argue that investing in affordable and accessible golf options is essential for nurturing the next generation of players and ensuring the sport’s sustainability.
In conclusion, while public golf in America faces turbulent waters, these recent developments serve as a reminder of the dedication of communities and organizations invested in preserving and revitalizing this beloved pastime. With innovative partnerships and a commitment to inclusivity, there’s a path forward that could redefine what municipal golf looks like for future generations. The coming year will be essential in determining not only the fate of specific courses but also the broader public golf landscape across the nation. Advocates and enthusiasts alike will undoubtedly remain vigilant as the story continues to unfold.
